When it takes effect on July 1, the law promises to upend how many restaurants operate.
Their menus will be required to list comprehensive prices for each item, with all mandatory charges baked into one figure.
Only fees that are entirely optional — like leaving a tip for staff — can be left out of the posted price.
"I think this guidance is great for consumers," Engstrom said, adding that in her view, the attorney general's interpretation tracks with legislators' intention.
Under the new guidelines, Thomas' organization said in an email to NPR, restaurants will be forced to impose "significant menu price increases."
And if customers eat out less, it warns, "Not only will restaurants struggle, but workers will lose hours and jobs.".
Thomas says she has always advocated for restaurants to be clear about any additional fees they charge. »
