Bay State News

Advocates in Massachusetts have successfully placed a question on the 2024 state ballot that could phase out the tipped wage for service workers. Despite challenges to the petition signatures and legality of the question, voters will decide on this issue.

The proposed Question 5 outlines a gradual increase in the tipped wage. By January 1, 2025, it would rise to 64% of the state minimum wage, reaching full parity by January 1, 2029. The measure also includes provisions for tip pooling.

Past attempts in other states to eliminate the tipped wage have led to increased menu prices and decreased tips for servers. In Maine, such changes were reversed after servers reported reduced earnings.

Proponents of the ballot question argue against what they describe as a "sub minimum wage" system in restaurants. However, Massachusetts law mandates that employers pay at least $15 per hour when tips are included. If a server's earnings fall short, restaurant owners must cover the difference. This requirement was tightened under the 2018 Grand Bargain.

Those interested in engaging with this ballot initiative can visit: Home | Protect Tips | Ballot Question. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed opposition to phasing out the tipped wage and remains vocal about its concerns with past legislative efforts.