Martinez sponsors Virginia bill requiring restaurants to increase food allergy transparency

Delegate Marty Martinez has submitted a bill targeting enhanced food allergy notification and safety protocols for both restaurant staff and diners, as outlined by the Virginia State House.

The proposed measure, HB373, was filed Jan. 14, 2026, during the 2026 regular legislative session. Its formal summary reads: “Restaurants; food allergy awareness notice required.”

The following provides our summary and clarification based on the actual bill text.

In summary, this legislation instructs the state health commissioner to publish a multilingual food allergy notice on the Department of Health website for restaurant employees. The notice would outline standard procedures for responding when a customer discloses an allergy, ways to limit cross-contact, and guidance on seeking emergency medical response for reactions. Restaurants would be required to display this information in staff areas in every language spoken by their employees, if available. Further, the bill stipulates the inclusion of the statement, “If you have a food allergy, please notify us,” on both physical and digital menus or on clearly displayed signage, ensuring translations are available. Restaurants also must offer an online means for customers to communicate food allergies.

HB373 is sponsored by Rep. Marty Martinez (Democrat-29th District), along with Rep. Elizabeth B. Bennett-Parker (Democrat-5th District), Rep. Marcia S. “Cia” Price (Democrat-85th District), and another legislator.

Martinez has introduced 10 additional pieces of legislation since this session began.

Martinez earned a bachelor’s degree from Portland State University in 1986.

Elected in 2024, Martinez represents Virginia’s 29th House district in the State House, succeeding Bill Wiley in this role.

Under Virginia law, the standard legislative process starts with the bill being introduced to either the House of Delegates or the Senate. The measure is reviewed by one or more committees, where changes may be recommended. If approved, the proposal heads to the legislative floor for debate and vote in both chambers. Passage in both sends it to the governor for a decision to sign, veto, or allow enactment without signature. Each January, the Virginia General Assembly meets for regular session, with hundreds of bills introduced each year, though not all reach final enactment.