The Importance of the Restaurant Advocacy Fund

In a major victory for restaurants across the country, the Washington, D.C., City Council voted to reinstate the tip credit permanently in our nation’s capital.

This landmark decision, which was voted on at the end of July, will provide immediate relief to restaurant owners and operators as it helps stabilize operating/labor costs and keep these businesses from potentially closing their doors under the original I-82 timeline.

When responsibly applied, tip-credit structures provide not only flexibility in managing payroll but also open the door for servers and bartenders to potentially earn significantly more. This is a system that has worked for decades and continues to be favored by many workers within the industry. The D.C. vote represents a significant policy win made possible by the tireless efforts of the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington and the National Restaurant Association, led by Vice President of State Affairs and Grassroots Advocacy Mike Whatley.

Central to this victory was also the critical support from the Restaurant Advocacy Fund (RAF), which helps protect and promote the restaurant industry at the state, local and federal levels. Despite the industry being a powerful economic force, each year legislators and special interest groups introduce bills and regulations that could hurt restaurants’ ability to remain in business. United advocacy efforts play a central role in shaping policy outcomes across a plethora of issues, all focused on the betterment of the industry and the needs of those working, dining and operating within it.

From tip-credit battles to labor issues, tax policy, health regulations, sustainability mandates and so much more, RAF provides the industry with the necessary resources for advocacy work through education, expert resources and financial support. The reinstatement of the tip credit in D.C. is an excellent example of what can be accomplished when the restaurant community comes together to fight for the industry.

The Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) has been fortunate to receive support from the Restaurant Advocacy Fund over the years. For all of us to help continue this work, the CRA’s Board of Directors is proud to host an RAF Benefit Dinner. This year’s event will take place at The Barns at Wesleyan Hills on Tuesday, Sept. 23. The second annual event promises to be an unforgettable evening of great food, drink and company, all in support of RAF.

Your attendance and support help ensure RAF can continue its vital work in the years ahead. Tickets are available to purchase here.

The seventh annual CRAZIES Awards will take place at Foxwoods Resort Casino Dec. 8. More details to follow. Not a Connecticut Restaurant Association member? Let’s change that! Head to ctrestaurant.org/join.