Chicago's tip credit veto sparks backlash as fuel waiver stirs price fears
Chicago's hospitality industry has reacted angrily to Mayor Brandon Johnson's veto of a proposed freeze on the city's tip credit. The decision, which keeps the credit at 24% of the minimum wage, has drawn criticism from restaurant owners and tipped staff. Meanwhile, a separate fuel waiver has sparked concerns over rising petrol costs in Illinois. Mayor Johnson defended his veto by stating he would oppose any measure that weakens worker protections. But industry leaders quickly pushed back. Sam Toia, CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association, warned the move would cut jobs and shrink take-home pay for employees.
In a separate development, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an emergency fuel waiver from May 1 to May 20. This allows nationwide sales of E15 gasoline and removes restrictions on E10. Nate Harris, CEO of the Illinois Fuel and Retail Association, cautioned that if Governor J.B. Pritzker does not reinstate the federal E10 waiver, fuel prices in the state could climb. The EPA has not ruled out extending the waiver beyond its current deadline.
Elsewhere, voting has opened for the round of 16 in the 2026 Makers Madness competition. Over 100 Illinois-made products are competing for the title of The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. The mayor's veto leaves Chicago's tip credit unchanged, leaving businesses and workers facing financial uncertainty. At the same time, the EPA's fuel waiver could ease supply issues—but only if extended. Illinois residents now also have the chance to vote on their favourite locally produced goods in the ongoing Makers Madness contest.
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