New York stands out for its failure to adopt the federal “No Tax on Tips” policy, which allows service workers to retain more of their earnings. While many states have embraced this measure, New York, under Governor Kathy Hochul, has chosen not to extend the same benefits to its hard-working bartenders and waitstaff.
The decision seems puzzling at best, appearing more like a political statement than a fiscal necessity. After all, the revenue the state gains from taxing tips likely does little to impact its overall budget. So why deny service workers, already living paycheck to paycheck, a financial lifeline? As highlighted by The New York Post, Hochul’s decision could be perceived as biting the hand that feeds the state’s economy.
The frustration among workers is palpable. “Screw her,” said Rion Gallagher, a bartender at The Blasket, reflecting the sentiment of many in the industry. For Gallagher and countless others, the denial of this benefit feels personally insulting. “If we weren’t taxed on our tips, we’d be able to save more,” he continued. “We’d enjoy life a little more.” Many people in the service industry depend on tips to make ends meet, and this burden only adds to their struggles.
Zoe Kalodimos, a waitress from Bethpage, echoed these sentiments, stating, “It’s disgraceful. People live off of tips.” Her perspective as the oldest of five siblings emphasizes the reality that service workers often juggle multiple financial responsibilities. The refusal to implement the federal policy doesn’t just hit their wallets; it also impacts their quality of life.
Social media has become a platform for expressing outrage over this issue. One commenter questioned whether Governor Hochul harbors disdain for her constituents. Others suggested that service workers should reconsider their political affiliations, linking their financial hardships directly to their voting choices. “Imagine being so pro-working class that you steal all of the money from the working class,” wrote one individual, highlighting the disconnect between political rhetoric and the lived experiences of everyday New Yorkers.
With economic pressures mounting, the question remains: How would implementing a “No Tax on Tips” policy hurt the state? Financially, it wouldn’t. For the workers relying on tips to pay their bills, it represents an opportunity for relief and financial stability. This situation seems misaligned with the values of supporting working-class individuals and raises eyebrows about the motivations behind such obstinacy.
In a state known for its vibrant service industry, this failure to act has left many feeling betrayed. The voices of those who operate at the frontline of New York’s dining and hospitality sectors deserve to be heard. They rely on tips not just for income but as a lifeline to improve their lives. As frustration grows, it’s clear that this policy decision — or lack thereof — sends a message that is hard to reconcile with claims of supporting the working class.
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