Read previewCouncil members in DC voted to allow restaurants and bars to charge service fees of up to 20%, provided that it's made clear to diners before they order.
Travelers United, a nonprofit that filed lawsuits against two restaurant groups that charged service fees in DC, argued that they were deceptive.
The Washington Post reported that some restaurants had introduced service charges to cover the higher wages they now need to pay staff.
The minimum wage that employers have to pay for tipped workers in DC is currently $8 an hour.
AdvertisementFrom July 1, when the District minimum wage goes up to $17.50 an hour, restaurants will have to pay tipped workers a minimum of $10 an hour.
Persons:
—, it's, they're, Muriel E, Bowser
Organizations:
Service, Business, Travelers United, DC, District's, Washington Post
Locations:
DC, Tuesday's