Just Don’t Call it a “Tax”
[Editor’s Note: The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway (“Berkshire”), or any other entity referenced. Edina Realty is a subsidiary of Berkshire.]
It turns out it wasn’t my imagination — and it wasn’t a new city, state, or federal tax, either.
Instead, that $1.97 fee (on my $65.80 tab) at local restaurant D’Amico & Sons the other day was for something called “Employee Wellness.”
According to the cashier, D’Amico’s started collecting it three months ago.
Questions, Questions
So, does the fee actually go towards improving “employee wellness?” How exactly?
Isn’t some portion of the bill (aka the restaurant’s revenues) already earmarked for employees’ benefit?
And perhaps most importantly: will other businesses — food or otherwise — follow suit?
Stay tuned . . .
P.S.: I suppose it’s up to individual consumers to decide if they like the establishment enough to pay the nominal fee (that is, assuming they notice).
But, assuming it becomes a trend and/or the amount grows, look for local or state government to review the practice, and potentially regulate it.
