44% of DC’s full-service
casual restaurants
expect to close this year.
We can save them.
In 2022, DC voters passed Initiative 82—legislation that fundamentally changed the way servers are paid. The good and important intention of the legislation was to support workers. The results have done exactly the opposite.
Wages are down significantly, jobs are being cut, customers are tipping less, and restaurants are increasing prices and adding fees to cover operating costs. All of this is happening as a perfect storm of national economic threats are converging on the restaurant industry and diners alike.
The result? Local restaurants are being forced to lay off their staff, say goodbye to their neighbors, and close their doors for good.
That’s why we are calling on the DC Council to immediately repeal Initiative 82.
Doing so would create a vital lifeline that will save jobs, wages, and restaurants. Initiative 82 didn’t go to plan. Now it’s time to fix it.
Key Facts
A record 74 DC restaurants closed
in 2024.
44% of DC’s full-service casual restaurants expect to close this year.
71% of workers indicated that their hours have been reduced.
70% of restaurants have cut hours, laid off staff, or stopped hiring entirely to reduce costs.
50% of workers have seen a reduction in their tips.