The vote sets the stage for a larger discussion over officially tossing the ballot innovative amid reports of lagging business from local eateries.

The Council of the District of Columbia voted 8-4 on Tuesday to pause the next scheduled wage increase for tipped workers, temporarily halting the implementation of Initiative 82. The initiative, overwhelmingly approved by 74% of voters in 2022,

Arguing that restaurants are facing tough times, the D.C. Council paused the next phase of Initiative 82, weeks ahead of a scheduled rise in the tipped minimum wage. Why it matters: Lawmakers voted 8-4 Tuesday to freeze the wage increase while it considers a full repeal of the law — as sought by Mayor Muriel Bowser and the restaurant industry.