Massachusetts Voters Reject Tipped Wage Increase

Massachusetts voters decisively rejected Question 5, a proposal aimed at gradually increasing the minimum wage for tipped workers from $6.75 to $15 an hour over several years, with the final tally showing 64% against and 36% in favor. Supporters believed the increase would provide financial stability for service workers, while opponents warned it could lead to increased costs for restaurants, reduced tips, and even business closures. Critics from the hospitality industry argued the proposal would harm workers by raising labor costs and potentially reducing overall wages. The Massachusetts Restaurant Association celebrated the outcome as a victory for the hospitality sector, asserting that thousands of servers opposed the measure. Alongside this, voters approved a measure granting the state auditor the authority to audit the Legislature, indicating a desire for greater transparency in government operations.