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Put the Champagne On Ice...Initiative 77 Not In The Clear Just Yet


Readers might recall that last week, voters in the District of Columbia made headlines when they approved Initiative 77.  With approximately 55% of voters approving the measure, tipped workers in the District were put on the fast track for a minimum wage increase from the current hourly rate of $3.33 up to $15/hour in the coming years.  While this was a relatively close vote (with 44,353 vote in favor and 36,090 against), supporters of the measure cheered it as a major milestone in the ongoing minimum wage fight across the country.

However, perhaps this is a good time to pump the breaks on celebrating the vote for the time being.  Since last week, restaurant owners indicated they intended to continue the fight against the minimum wage hike for tipped workers.  After voters approved Initiative 77, it was sent to Capitol Hill for a 30 day Congressional review.  During this review period, Congress could alter or overturn the measure entirely.  As well, the District of Columbia Council could step in and take action as well.  From recent reports, it appears that a majority of the Council (as well as Mayor Muriel Bowser) have opposed the measure.  There is a possibility that the Council could pass legislation to repeal Initiative 77 (or could take steps to limit the impact of Initiative 77 on smaller employers).

While the passage of Initiative 77 marked a major milestone in the ongoing minimum wage fight, this one is not in the clear just yet.

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