10/28/2024
We have almost been open for 21 years and as we often say, that is like 150 in restaurant years! You have become like family to us and have supported us through all of the ups and downs...our benchmark celebrations, your life cycle events, both happy and sad, our involvement with local charities and events, Tom Brady putting our Bolognese on the map, our fire, and the dreaded Covid that changed the way restaurants operate like nothing we have ever experienced before. We are so proud of our staff and how they stood by us during these ups and downs and continue to run La Morra and Punch Bowl like it is their own. La Morrapunchbowl_brookline
Unfortunately, we are being faced yet again with a challenge that will change the landscape of Massachusetts restaurants like no one can imagine.
We support fair pay and good working conditions, but Question #5 threatens to do more harm than good to individual restaurant workers, independent restaurants, and the community. Increased costs will be passed onto you, and many restaurants—especially smaller, independent ones, like La Morra and Punch Bowl—may not survive.
This initiative has been brought to Massachusetts by California activists led by Saru Jayaraman, the founder of One Fair Wage. The person with the most credible allegations of a hostile work environment, wage theft and stiffing contractors is Saru herself. As the Boston Globe reported this week, “One Fair Wage, the California activist who leads it, and the group’s own shaky history as an employer — which is dotted with allegations of tax evasion, missed paychecks, and mistreatment of former employees.” The Boston Globe
Ballot Question #5, while appearing to support workers, could lead to serious challenges for the restaurant industry in Massachusetts—affecting not only employees but also you, our cherished guests. If passed, this measure will eliminate tip credits by 2029, meaning that all employees will be required to earn the full state minimum wage before tips.
This may sound positive, but here’s the reality:
* Massive increases in menu prices. This will cost over 18,000 per month for every full time employee.
* Fewer jobs and reduced hours: Restaurants with already tight margins will likely have to reduce staff, cut hours, or in some cases, even close.
* Lower wages for many: Ironically, this measure could lead to **lower take-home pay** for servers, as higher base wages often result in smaller tips.
Learn More:
https://www.protecttips.org
Help us preserve the vibrant, diverse dining culture in Massachusetts. Vote NO on Question #5 in the upcoming election.
Thank you for your support!
