Operators must be engaged politically to fight against anti-business legislation

Threatening legislation and electoral initiatives to mandate employee pay raises and benefits are being implemented by those that have never worked a day in the restaurant industry. In November, ballot initiatives to raise the minimum wage passed in six states: Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and Ohio. The initiatives were among the most aggressive wage policies ever proposed. They were not simple one-time wage hikes, but dangerous annual increases indexed to inflation. Here are some ways restaurants can defend themselves from anti-industry efforts: 1. Become engaged in government affairs. 2. Make political contributions to beat anti-business initiatives.