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Question 5
Minimum Wage for Tipped Workers
Massachusetts·2024·Initiative·Failed
Summary
Would have gradually raised the minimum cash wage for tipped employees to match the regular minimum wage by 2029, eliminating the separate lower tipped minimum wage. The measure failed with about 55% voting no, following significant opposition from the restaurant industry.
Results
Yes45.3%
No54.7%
Arguments
For
Eliminates a two-tiered wage system rooted in racial inequity and ensures tipped workers receive a guaranteed base wage regardless of slow shifts or bad tippers.
Against
Restaurant operators argued eliminating the tipped wage would force menu price increases, reduce server hours, or cause some businesses to close entirely.