ABL Dispatch — The Latest Industry News from Washington BY JOHN BODNOVICH, ABL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
I want to take a moment to thank the members of the TLW who help form American Beverage Licensees (ABL). Your support makes possible the work we do on behalf of our members and, without it, there would be a sizable void for those beverage licensees whose voices need to be heard. We all know that 2020 was a challenging year, particularly for our on-premise members, and the bar and tavern community. Despite the challenges, though, these licensees have persevered with great sacrifice, ingenuity and organization to continue to stay in business, provide jobs to their staff, and serve their communities in a safe and responsible manner. While it may be necessary to be physically distant, the need to be socially connected remains just as important as ever as we deal with the implications and outcomes of COVID-19. You have commendably filled that need for many of your friends and neighbors who otherwise would be alone.
While it may be necessary to be physically distant, the need to be socially connected remains just as important as ever as we deal with the implications and outcomes of COVID-19.
Already into 2021, there are no guarantees that life is suddenly going to improve for those facing COVID-19 or for those whose businesses have been derailed thanks to the virus. But I am hopeful that, in the coming months, we’re going to begin to see some improvements for those most susceptible or at risk to the virus, relief for those businesses that have been operating in a limited manner, and maybe www.tlw.org
most importantly, a return of confidence to your customers to feel more comfortable visiting their favorite local bars and taverns. Please know that ABL is going to continue to work on your behalf to share your stories, provide counsel and seek relief to the best of our abilities. We remain stronger when we are all together and prepared for the challenges that we anticipate or, like in 2020, enduring the ones we didn’t see coming.
SAVE THE DATE ABL plans to hold its Annual Meeting from October 17-18, 2021, at the Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, La. More details to follow …
$15 AN HOUR MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE ABL has voiced its opposition to plans to increase the federal minimum wage and eliminate the minimum cash wage (tip credit). The association has pointed out that more than doubling the current federal minimum wage for non-tipped employees would have a drastically negative effect on hospitality businesses, which have been hardest hit during the pandemic and can least afford another increased cost. Phasing out the minimum cash wage for tipped employees, which is currently utilized in some form in 43 states, would also have a devastating impact on bars and restaurants. The industry’s narrow margins have been wiped out by the coronavirus pandemic. If these family-owned and operated businesses can’t afford to open their doors, they can’t pay employees any wages — minimum or otherwise. MARCH/APRIL 2021
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