The Chamber of Deputies’ Labor and Social Security Committee approved a reform to the Federal Labor Law that prohibits tips from being used as a substitute for the minimum wage for employees of hotels, restaurants, sports facilities, and gas stations. The initiative, presented by Representative Pedro Haces Barba of Morena (Morena), seeks to ensure that these workers receive a base salary without relying exclusively on customer gratitude.
With this reform, employers will not be able to touch tips or use them to cover operating costs, such as replacing broken glassware or any other damage within the establishment. “Tipping is not mandatory; it is sacred,” stated Haces Barba in defending the proposal.
The changes to the Federal Labor Law include modifications to Articles 90, 344, 346, 347, 348, and 350, in alignment with Article 123 of the Constitution, which protects workers’ rights in Mexico.
The congressman explained that this initiative seeks to prevent abuses by employers, who have often deducted tips to replace damaged materials or justify lower pay for their employees. He also mentioned that he has spoken with Francisco Cervantes Díaz, president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE), to ensure that the reform benefits both workers and employers.
“Restaurants and hotels often deduct workers’ tips for broken glassware, cutlery, and crockery, and that can no longer be the case,” Haces Barba emphasized.
The approval of this reform represents a step forward in labor protection for thousands of workers in Mexico, who for years have had to survive solely on tips without access to the benefits granted by law.
Source: nomecensures
