RAMW STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF RESTAURANT REVITALIZATION AND DRAM SHOP CLARIFICATION AMENDMENT ACT OF 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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STATEMENT FROM RAMW PRESIDENT AND CEO SHAWN TOWNSEND FOLLOWING PASSAGE OF RESTAURANT REVITALIZATION AND DRAM SHOP CLARIFICATION AMENDMENT ACT OF 2023

Washington, DC (March 5, 2024) - This bill represents a pivotal opportunity for bolstering an industry that continues to face the lingering effects of the pandemic, marked by inflation, a decrease in downtown patronage, and safety concerns.

Today’s legislation reduces liquor liability insurance costs for local businesses and will dramatically improve their ability to achieve success without the overwhelming burdens of high insurance fees. Additionally, an important amendment to better protect operators from frivolous lawsuits also passed, clarifying that service charges of less than 20 percent are permitted when diners are notified before ordering and how it’s used. Other notables of the bill include streamlined licensing and training for ABC managers, permanently adopted current temporary regulations for third-party delivery, and established a much-needed education campaign about the end of the tipped wage in the District. 

There are many to thank for today’s accomplishments, including the DC Nightlife Council; Councilmembers Brooke Pinto and Christina Henderson, who introduced the dram shop reform bill; Councilmember Charles Allen, whose additional proposals were incorporated into the final legislation; and of course Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, Chair of the Committee on Business and Economic Development, who shepherded today’s outcome. 

“There is much more work to do in our industry, but the passage of this act promises substantial benefits for our neighborhood restaurants, including operators, workers, and diners alike.” said Shawn Townsend, President and CEO of RAMW. 

About Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW)

Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is the regional trade association representing restaurants and the foodservice industry in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area. Established in 1920, RAMW is an advocate, resource and community for its members. The Association works to promote and sustain the growth and development of the industry while providing its members legislative and regulatory representation, marketing and small business support, programming and events. RAMW strives to serve its members with professionalism and integrity, and provide them the training, education and support they need to grow a successful business.

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