Articles
February 03, 2026
ServSafe: Update on legislative trends impacting restaurants
Regulations have affected allergen labeling, alcohol to go, and workplace violence prevention, among other things.
New laws mandated clearer allergen notifications on menus and digital platforms to protect diners with food allergies.
In 2025, state legislation affected the restaurant industry in several key areas, including allergen labeling requirements, alcohol to go, delivery regulations, and workplace violence prevention.
Alcohol to go and alcohol delivery continued to be a hot topic, with states revising requirements to balance consumer convenience and public safety. Many jurisdictions introduced stricter age verification processes and packaging rules, allowing restaurants to expand off-premises sales while ensuring compliance with state laws.
In addition, workplace violence prevention gained renewed focus, leading to new mandates for employee training and establishing protocols for safeguarding staff and guests.
These legislative trends reflected a broader push towards safety, transparency, and operational flexibility in the restaurant sector.
The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe program has tools and additional guidance for operators seeking information on the legislative changes:
Clearer notifications and protections
New laws mandated clearer allergen notifications on menus and digital platforms, with the aim of protecting diners with food allergies and promoting transparency. Restaurants have responded by updating menu descriptions and training staff in proper communication of potential allergens.Alcohol to go and alcohol delivery continued to be a hot topic, with states revising requirements to balance consumer convenience and public safety. Many jurisdictions introduced stricter age verification processes and packaging rules, allowing restaurants to expand off-premises sales while ensuring compliance with state laws.
In addition, workplace violence prevention gained renewed focus, leading to new mandates for employee training and establishing protocols for safeguarding staff and guests.
These legislative trends reflected a broader push towards safety, transparency, and operational flexibility in the restaurant sector.
The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe program has tools and additional guidance for operators seeking information on the legislative changes:
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