Washington Business Journal Op-Ed
Viewpoint: Why D.C. must repeal Initiative 82
Washington, D.C.’s restaurant scene is the beating heart of our city. It fuels the local economy, builds community and gives our neighborhoods their unique character. But that heart is under serious strain —and we’re dangerously close to flatlining.
Our latest industry survey found that 44% of full-service casual restaurants in D.C. expect to close by the end of 2025. That’s not just a statistic — it’s a flashing red warning sign.
Yes, inflation, reduced federal foot traffic, crime, and pandemic recovery have all played a role. But one fact remains clear: Initiative 82 has and will continue to accelerate this collapse.
When voters passed I-82 in 2022, it started a clock on the elimination of D.C.’s tip wage — a system that tipped servers support because it ensures they make at least the minimum wage, while often making far more through tips. In the best of times, the initiative would have been a challenge for restaurant operators, but the implementation has been a disaster.
The Council has the power — and responsibility — to address the unintended consequences of I-82.
The RAMMYS 2025
RAMMYS Season is Here!
Presented by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), The RAMMYS honors the exceptional ability and accomplishments of the hard-working individuals and organizations of the Washington, DC, region’s restaurant and foodservice community.
Join us for a full season of celebrating excellence at our RAMMYS events
The RAMMYS Public Voting
Vote For Your Favorite Restaurants
Vote for your favorite restaurants in 4 fun categories that brought you joy, delicious food and drink, great ambiance, and good times over the past year!
The Public Voting period is from 9 am, May 1, through 5 pm, May 31, 2025.
Statement from Shawn Townsend, President & CEO of RAMW
Statement in Response to the Mayor's Announcement in Support of the Repeal of Initiative 82
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington thanks Mayor Bowser for standing with restaurant operators, workers, and diners by supporting the repeal of Initiative 82. Her leadership reflects a clear understanding of the urgent and present challenges our industry is facing and the immediate action required to preserve it.
Let us be clear — repealing Initiative 82 is about saving jobs, saving restaurants, and stabilizing a vital sector of the District’s economy. Restaurants are cornerstones of our communities.
Yet nearly 70% of them have already been forced to cut hours and lay off staff. In 2024 alone, the city saw a record 74 closures. The consequences of inaction are not hypothetical — they’re happening now.
We urge the DC Council to join us and support the repeal of Initiative 82. The industry is at a breaking point. Immediate relief is needed. The time to lead is now.
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ServSafe classes, exams, technical assistance seminars, and workshops are FREE for DC residents, restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality businesses through September 30, 2025.
Statement on Mayor's Support to Repeal Initiative 82
Immigration Resources ServSafe Training The RAMMYS
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RAMW membership provides DC Area restaurateurs and allied businesses legislative and regulatory representation, important resources for your business, and industry-specific communications, programming, marketing support, and events.
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Advocacy
RAMW stands as the premier voice for Greater Washington's vibrant foodservice industry, representing over 1,500 members including restaurant owners, operators, food distributors, and service providers. Since our founding in 1920, we've evolved into an indispensable advocate, resource hub, and community cornerstone for the region's restaurant industry.
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RAMW programming celebrates the diverse culinary landscape of our region. Our programming, such as Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week, The RAMMYS Awards Gala, DC Cocktail Week, and Spring Wine Fling, highlight the exceptional talent and creativity of local restaurants.
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RAMW is your comprehensive training resource, from industry-required certifications to industry-specific workshops. Our training programs empower your employees to work safely, protect your assets, and optimize your business operations.
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