Approximately 17% of restaurants across America had closed their doors for good by December of 2020

The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce has significant concerns about the current proposal to raise the minimum wage through a COVID-19 relief package. Though we do believe there is room for a nuanced conversation about adjustments in the minimum wage, we do not believe now is the time.

The restaurant and hospitality industry across America has suffered deeply due to the pandemic caused by novel coronavirus disease 2019. According to a study cited in Business Insider, approximately 17% of restaurants across America had closed their doors for good by December of 2020. Now Congress is considering a substantial increase in costs for every restaurant and small business owner.

One longtime Dubuque business owner stated that they are concerned about their future if the minimum wage goes up, while another expressed that there is already not enough business to keep up with the daily operating costs. Though remaining open, these business owners cannot take another blow, an economic recovery must come first.

As Congress continues to debate the issue, we hope they put the needs of all Americans first by delivering vaccines effectively and efficiently and putting money in the pockets of those who need it through stimulus payments and other targeted measures.

The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce has heard the unease from the business community regarding the proposal to increase the minimum wage and we encourage our members to reach out to our federal delegation and let them know how this would impact your business.

###