Initiative 82 will hurt D.C.’s bartenders
washingtonblade.comThe hospitality industry in D.C. has given me so many opportunities throughout my five-year career as a bartender. I’ve had a flexible schedule, been able to support my family and live in D.C. (not the cheapest!), advance in my positions, and make lifelong friends whom I consider family.
Being a bartender is my career, and that’s why I’m speaking out against Initiative 82 to share my perspective as someone who will be directly impacted by its passage.
Today, my base pay and the tips I receive for my service pay me well above D.C.’s minimum wage. That’s how I’ve been able to live in this city and support my family.
If 82 passes, it would almost certainly decrease the tips I receive, the earning I make, and immediately jeopardize our entire industry.
