S.F. police a step closer to gaining powers against illegal street vending

Idalia Lopez, a street vendor in San Francisco's Mission District, woke up at 4:30 a. m. to advocate for a crucial new bill, SB 276, aimed at regulating illegal street vending. Joined by fellow vendors and Senator Scott Wiener, she presented the bill to the Local Government Committee, which unanimously supported it after a 40-minute presentation. Lopez highlighted the dangers faced by permitted vendors, noting a rise in violence and harassment from unpermitted vendors since the pandemic.

The proposed legislation would empower police to cite and potentially jail repeat offenders, aiming to restore safety in the area. Wiener adjusted the bill to address concerns about criminal penalties, ensuring that officers would not inquire about vendors' citizenship status. The bill is also designed to include workshops for vendors and limit permitting fees to $25 for those earning below a certain income threshold. With the backing of local vendors, the bill represents a significant shift in how street vending is regulated in San Francisco. If enacted, SB 276 could reshape the dynamics of street vending, balancing the need for regulation with the realities of vendor livelihoods.