Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is looking to add more regulations to food delivery services.
On Tuesday, the Republican state leader signed a new bill that will give the state “regulatory control” over food service apps such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. The measure, titled SB 676, will require all third-party food delivery apps to have the restaurant’s consent before accepting orders or offering deliveries.
SB 676 is also cracking down on the communication issues that customers frequently face when ordering food. Typically, there is no way in the app to contact the restaurant directly. The new bill will also mandate that delivery apps provide more effective ways to reach the establishments. This includes requiring the apps to give eateries contact information for delivery customers.
Another annoying factor that has bothered consumers is the continuously changing fees. The price listed on the app often differs from the menu prices in the actual restaurant. This has also been an issue for restaurants, who have accused the delivery services of charging them unfair prices. Under SB 676, the apps must identify all charges and commissions for which the restaurant will be responsible.
“Food delivery apps are very popular. They provide great convenience to consumers, but the fast growth of food delivery has also made clear that we need consistent standards for transparency, consent, and communication between the platform’s restaurants and consumers,” stated supporter of the bill, Sen. Jennifer Bradley, in February.
Businesses that offer in-house food delivery, such as pizzerias, won’t be affected by SB 676.
