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One to Keep An Eye On: Initiative 77 (Washington D.C.)


As with many employment and labor law related bills (and cases) being litigated around the country, there are always a few that stand out.

This is one to keep an eye on,


On June 19th, voters in Washington D.C. will vote on Initiative 77 which would ultimately do away with the lower 'tipped wage' (currently $3.33/hour for tipped workers) and would gradually phase in an hourly wage rate of $15/hour by 2026.  This proposal would impact tipped workers in the city such as waiters, waitresses, bartenders, etc.  Proponents of the measure argue this Initiative is necessary to limit the amount of harassment tipped workers are subjected to in order to make enough tips to supplement their $3.33/hour pay rate.  As well, it has been argued that if the measure were approved, it would limit the 'tip theft' that some employers engage in, to the detriment of their tipped employees.

However, opponents of Initiative 77 have pointed out that if employers are forced to pay higher labor costs, that could result in layoffs, fewer hours, and the increased labor costs ultimately being passed on to customers, among other possible negative outcomes.

It will be interesting to see how voters decide the matter in a few weeks.  At this point, I could easily see the matter going either way.  Stay tuned.


For additional information:  https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/should-dc-restaurants-pay-minimum-wage-ballot-measure-debate-gets-heated/2018/05/30/ca1bca86-6394-11e8-99d2-0d678ec08c2f_story.html?utm_term=.3992fd8f9803

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