DC Budget Showdown: Commanders Deal & Wage Wars Heat Up!
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The DC Council is set to finalize the 2026 budget today after weeks of intense debate. Key issues dominating the discussion include the controversial Commanders deal, the implementation of Initiative 82 concerning tipped wages, and funding for violence intervention programs.
Commanders Deal: A Separate Battle
Weeks ago, the council made the strategic decision to separate the Commanders deal from the main budget conversation. Public hearings are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the first vote slated for Friday. Despite this separation, the council previously approved $500 million to kickstart construction at the RFK Stadium site. The remaining $1.1 billion is subject to further negotiation, with Council Chair Phil Mendelson claiming to have secured a more favorable agreement with the Commanders.
Tipped Wage Tussle: Initiative 82 Under Fire
Initiative 82, which mandates increases for tipped wage workers, has sparked significant controversy. Mayor Muriel Bowser has been a vocal opponent, arguing that the initiative has led to restaurant closures. A previous compromise proposal aimed at partially implementing the wage increases was rejected by the council, but renewed efforts are underway to find a solution.
New Amendment Proposed
Councilmembers Charles Allen and Christina Henderson have introduced a new amendment to Initiative 82. This proposal would maintain the current base wage for tipped workers at $10 until 2026 and gradually increase the proposed minimum wage percentage rate from 56% to 75% by July 1, 2034. The amendment aims to ensure that tipped employees' wages keep pace with inflation while mitigating the potential negative impacts on restaurants.
The final vote on the 2026 budget promises to be a crucial moment for Washington DC, shaping the city's financial future and impacting businesses and workers alike. Stay tuned for updates as the council reaches its final decisions.