Unauthorized listings must come down within 10 days as Congress looks at banning delivery apps listing restaurants without permission

Consent required for listings

The bipartisan proposal would require platforms such as GrubHub and DoorDash to obtain permission before displaying a restaurant. If notified of an unauthorized listing, a platform would have 10 calendar days to remove it.

The bill would classify unapproved listings as unfair or deceptive trade practices, placing enforcement under the Federal Trade Commission. Federal rules governing this practice have not existed, though California and New York City are among places with local restrictions.

If enacted, the measure would apply after the next congressional term starts in 2027. Senator Lee said independent restaurants face thin profit margins and declining tourism, and argued that unauthorized listings could harm their reputation and customer access.

Merger draws antitrust scrutiny

DoorDash announced a $17 billion takeover of Instacart. The proposed deal drew immediate criticism from antitrust advocates, including the American Economic Liberties Project, which called on federal regulators to block it.

The group raised concerns that the combined company would control nearly 60 percent of the third-party grocery delivery market. AELP Senior Legal Counsel Lee Hepner also criticized the companies’ treatment of businesses and workers, and warned of effects on worker compensation and consumer costs.

Companies describe deal plans

Under the agreement, the Instacart brand and application would remain active after closing. Retail partners would also retain the option to work with other delivery platforms.