Mayor Brandon Johnson's Veto Secures Ongoing Raises for Chicago Tipped Workers
Mayor Brandon Johnson successfully defended his veto against a City Council measure that sought to freeze raises for tipped workers in Chicago. The council's attempt to override the veto fell short, with a 30 to 19 vote, failing to reach the required 34-vote majority. This decision maintains the trajectory of annual raises for tipped workers, a key component of the 'One Fair Wage' ordinance passed in 2023. The ordinance aims to eliminate the subminimum wage for tipped workers by 2028, with incremental raises already increasing wages from $9.48 to $12.62 per hour. The debate has been contentious, with opponents arguing that the raises could harm the restaurant industry by increasing operational costs, while supporters emphasize the necessity of these raises in light of rising living costs.