Overview
- Johnson’s veto on Wednesday blocked a City Council plan to pause the tipped wage at 76%, setting up a possible April 15 override that would require 34 votes after a 30–18 passage last week.
- The 2023 One Fair Wage law moves tipped workers from 76% of the city minimum ($12.62) toward full parity by 2028, with the base scheduled to rise to 84% on July 1 unless the veto is overturned.
- Restaurant leaders are now lobbying alderpersons to flip at least four votes, with the Illinois Restaurant Association targeting members from restaurant-heavy wards to build an override bloc.
- Illinois lawmakers advanced House Bill 4263 to give the state sole power over tipped-wage rules, a move that could block Chicago’s phaseout if it becomes law.
- Backers cite equity goals and city data showing 1,574 new food licenses and higher renewal rates in 2025, while owners report higher prices, staff cuts and closures and warn the raises could reduce hours and tips.