Muriel Bowser, the Mayor of Washington, DC, has recently called for a significant policy shift—one that could reshape the city’s approach to wages and the future of its restaurant industry. Bowser is actively seeking the repeal of Initiative 82, a voter-approved measure that changed how tipped workers are paid. This decision has stirred debate across the city, impacting employers, workers, and local residents.
Initiative 82 passed in 2022 with overwhelming support from DC voters. The law aimed to increase the tipped minimum wage gradually, eventually making it equal to the city’s standard minimum wage by 2027. For many workers, this meant a more stable and predictable income. However, businesses, especially restaurants, have faced rising operational costs and other challenges since its implementation.
Muriel Bowser argues that the economic landscape in DC has changed significantly since Initiative 82 was adopted. She notes that while the intention was to help workers, the outcome has strained local businesses. Many restaurant owners say they cannot absorb the increased labor costs on top of higher rents and supply expenses. In fact, according to NBC4 Washington, two well-known District spots, Sticky Rice and Haikan, closed their doors recently, citing recent wage policy changes as a key factor.
Bowser stated, “It would be negligent for us to act like we’re in the same place we were three years ago.” She believes repealing Initiative 82 will give small, independent restaurants a fighting chance to remain open and continue employing DC residents.
The push to repeal Initiative 82 has not gone unnoticed. Some DC residents insist that the will of the voters, who originally approved the initiative, should be respected. On the other hand, many business owners are relieved by Bowser’s proposal, arguing that it might halt the wave of restaurant closures and job losses. Hospitality unions and some workers, however, warn that backtracking on the minimum wage increase would negatively affect those most in need of wage security.
The debate is ongoing, with rallies and public meetings planned to address the concerns of both business owners and workers. As reported by FOX 5 DC, critics of Initiative 82 point to “fewer tips, lost jobs, and closed restaurants” since its introduction.
Muriel Bowser has indicated that specifics for repealing Initiative 82 will be outlined in her upcoming 2026 budget proposal to the DC Council. Part of her plan may include restoring the old tipped wage system and introducing sales tax holidays for restaurants, providing further relief for the ailing industry. The final decision will rest with the Council—and with a city watching closely.
Muriel Bowser’s stance on Initiative 82 highlights the complex balance between supporting workers and sustaining local businesses. As the city continues to recover from economic challenges, the outcome of this policy debate will shape DC’s restaurant industry and workforce for years to come. For further information and to follow updates on this evolving issue, read detailed coverage at NBC4 Washington and FOX 5 DC.