San Jose considers new self-checkout regulations to curb retail theft

San Jose is considering new regulations for self-checkout areas in grocery and drug stores to address retail theft, improve worker safety, and enhance public convenience. City officials report that retail theft results in approximately $400,000 in lost sales tax revenue annually.

The proposed rules, discussed by the San Jose City Council’s rules committee, include a mandated ratio of one employee for every three kiosks, a limit of 15 items per self-checkout transaction, and the requirement to keep at least one employee-staffed lane open whenever self-checkout machines are in use.

If passed, San Jose would be the first city in the Bay Area to restrict self-checkout, following similar moves in Southern California cities like Long Beach and Santa Ana. The California Grocers Association has expressed concerns that these regulations could lead to higher grocery prices, longer lines, and increased risks for workers without effectively stopping crime.