Chico Times

Republican Assembly Leader James Gallagher and Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones have called on Governor Gavin Newsom to release documents related to the "bakery exemption" in California's fast-food labor law. The exemption has been at the center of the PaneraGate scandal, with allegations of favoritism towards a major donor of Newsom's administration.

Gallagher expressed skepticism about the deal, stating, "It’s a heck of a coincidence that this deal, crafted in secret, just happens to carve out one of Newsom’s major donors." He urged Newsom to provide transparency by releasing all related documents and communications, including those with Greg Flynn, the donor reportedly benefiting from the exemption.

Jones also raised concerns, highlighting the importance of revealing the details of private meetings where the exemption may have been negotiated. He emphasized, "If Governor Newsom is as innocent as he claims, he should be eager to clear his name by handing over these records."

While Newsom and Flynn have attempted to distance themselves from the exemption, the bill's author denies knowledge of its origin, and no party involved in the negotiations has taken responsibility for its creation.

In their letter to Newsom, the Republican leaders acknowledged potential exemptions under the California Public Records Act but called for voluntary disclosure to address public concerns regarding possible corruption in the matter.

The records request to the governor can be found on the official website.