Why We're Voting No on Question 5: Protecting Massachusetts' Tipped Workers

As November approaches, Massachusetts voters face an important decision that could significantly impact our state's service industry. Question 5 on the ballot proposes to change the way tipped workers are paid, but we believe this change would hurt the very people it claims to help. Here's why we're urging you to vote NO on Question 5.

Understanding the Current System

Currently, tipped workers in Massachusetts earn a base wage of $6.75 per hour, with the expectation that tips will bring their total earnings to at least $15 per hour. If tips fall short, employers are required to make up the difference. This system has worked well for decades, allowing many tipped workers to earn well above the minimum wage.

The Problem with Question 5

Question 5 proposes to gradually raise the minimum wage for tipped workers to $15 per hour and allow for tip pooling. While this might sound good on paper, it could have severe unintended consequences:

Reduced Overall Earnings: Many tipped workers fear they'll earn significantly less if Question 5 passes. As Brian "Blackie" Black, a bartender with nearly 30 years of experience, puts it, "The tips are the income. Tipping is the way that people thank us."
Job Losses: Higher labor costs could force restaurants and other service industry businesses to cut staff or reduce hours.
Decreased Service Quality: With less incentive to provide exceptional service, the overall customer experience could suffer.

Debunking the Myths

Supporters of Question 5 have spread several myths about the current tipping system. Let's set the record straight:

Myth: There's a sub-minimum wage in Massachusetts.Fact: Every worker in Massachusetts is guaranteed to earn at least $15 per hour, including tipped employees.
Myth: Tips are better in states without a tip credit.Fact: The Census Bureau reports that "tips per hour appear to decrease in response to higher tipped minimum wages."
Myth: Eliminating the tip credit reduces workplace sexual harassment.Fact: EEOC data shows no correlation between tipping and sexual harassment rates in the restaurant industry.
Myth: California proves eliminating the tip credit is beneficial.Fact: California consistently has the lowest tip average among all 50 states, according to an industry analysis by Toast.

The Voice of Tipped Workers

It's crucial to listen to those who would be most affected by this change. A recent survey showed that 90% of tipped employees oppose this ballot question. These workers understand that the current system allows them to earn a good living and provides opportunities for advancement in the service industry.

Conclusion: Vote NO on Question 5

Question 5 is a well-intentioned but misguided attempt to help tipped workers. In reality, it threatens to reduce their income, eliminate jobs, and harm the vibrant service industry that is so crucial to our state's economy and culture.

On November 5th, we urge you to stand with Massachusetts' tipped workers and vote NO on Question 5. Let's protect the system that has served our workers and our economy well for years.

Remember, your vote matters. Together, we can ensure that Massachusetts remains a great place to work in the service industry.