LA Institutes New Valet Parking Regulations

Yet another licensing scheme

The L.A. City Council has created a new law in search of a problem. In this case, the problem is valet parking. You know, the scourge of a town with fewer and fewer spaces and plenty of high rollers who don't mind having Mexicans find them one.

Yesterday the council voted unanimously to enact strict valet regulations, including a $70 permit fee for those minimum-wage earners who park your car and misdemeanor punishment for those who don't pay that fee. Really:

That can be a day's pay. The lowly valet will hand over more to do his job than some people will to park their Bugattis. What's next, a dish-washing fee? (We probably shouldn't have brought it up).

Comments

[Batgirl]

Is there anything California WON'T regulate?

[Sudden]

Abortions

[Richard Rider]

No, it's not a DUMB idea. It's a RAPACIOUS idea. Has nothing to do with service, safety, whatever. It's all about the $70 city revenue.

But don't get TOO upset for the poor valets. Valets make $15-$25 an hour -- or more. That's because in CA (unlike a number of other states), they get minimum wage PLUS tips. As a result, we have overqualified people racing around on foot, doing jobs less skilled folks could be doing.

Furthermore, most valets doubtlessly voted for Obama, and think the minimum wage increase is great! Screw 'em.

[feudalserf]

You've talked me into it. Screw 'em.