Christopher Carlozzi NFIB/Massachusetts State Director | NFIB Massachusetts
Christopher Carlozzi NFIB/Massachusetts State Director | NFIB Massachusetts
Efforts to eliminate the tipped wage in Massachusetts have resurfaced, this time through a ballot initiative. The proposal aims to phase out the tipped wage for hospitality workers, a move that has sparked debate among stakeholders. On September 20th, NFIB Massachusetts and the Committee to Protect Tips hosted a virtual event to discuss the potential impacts of this initiative.
The event aimed to inform business owners about resources available to oppose the proposal. Critics argue that eliminating the tipped wage could harm hospitality workers by reducing their take-home pay, increase operating costs for business owners, and lead to higher prices for consumers.
Proponents of phasing out the tipped wage highlight past successes but face criticism regarding its consequences. In Washington, DC, similar changes led to 3,700 job losses in full-service restaurants within a year due to closures and cutbacks. Some restaurants shifted from full-service models to fast casual dining. In Maine, servers campaigned against a referendum phasing out the tipped wage as it resulted in reduced earnings.
The proposed changes are expected to affect not only restaurants but also other businesses such as hotels, resorts, barbershops, and salons. The ripple effect could extend throughout Massachusetts' economy, impacting food providers, delivery drivers, cleaners, tourism, and others linked with hospitality.
For further inquiries about this event or related issues, NFIB Grassroots Manager Julianna Rauf can be contacted at julianna.rauf@nfib.org or 857-228-9978.
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