Voters in Arizona and Massachusetts to Decide Fate of Tipped Workers' Wages

Ballot measures in both states will address whether to maintain a lower minimum wage for tipped workers or align it with the standard minimum wage.

Arizona's Proposition 138 proposes allowing employers to pay tipped workers 25% less than the regular minimum wage, provided their total pay with tips is at least $2 above the minimum.
Massachusetts voters will consider a measure to gradually increase the tipped minimum wage to match the regular minimum wage by 2029.
Advocates argue that eliminating the subminimum wage protects workers from exploitation, while opponents claim it could lead to reduced hours and higher menu prices.
Federal labor law requires employers to ensure tipped workers earn at least the minimum wage, but compliance issues have been reported.
The outcome of these votes could influence similar measures in other states and affect the ongoing national debate over minimum wage policies.