Restaurants Act

Advocacy arm of the National Restaurant Association • Championing America's restaurant industry • Mobilizing restaurant advocates in the spirit of hospitality

America’s Restaurant Advocates is an interactive grassroots community through the National Restaurant Association designed to engage restaurant industry supporters in educating both their elected officials and other industry members on critical restaurant policy issues. Get involved with the community of passionate restaurant supporters by sharing your story about changes you have helped to affect

in Washington, let us know what Members of Congress you know, and take our survey to let us know about critical issues affecting your bottom line.

05/22/2026

Understaffing isn’t just a challenge—it’s expensive. Nearly 8 in 10 operators say being short-staffed limits growth, with some potentially losing up to $100K annually. Investing in hiring, onboarding, and retention isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Read the latest staffing insights in the our Workforce Hiring & Staffing Report, sponsored by
Workday, and take action: https://bit.ly/3QdooB5

05/21/2026

Restaurant sales climbed to $101B in April, up 0.6% from March and marking three straight months of growth.

Despite higher gas prices, consumers continue to spend on dining, highlighting the industry’s resilience. Pricing strategies and steady demand are helping support ongoing growth.

Explore the full insights: https://bit.ly/4wEbEUO

05/20/2026

Today, server Sultan Stipho testified before the House Ways & Means Tax Subcommittee to share how is delivering real results for working families.

From paying his way through college on tips to preparing for law school, Sultan’s story shows how the restaurant industry creates opportunity—and how tax relief can make a meaningful difference.

“This past tax season… I received approximately $4,000 back. That money went directly toward law school applications… It kept a door to my future wide open.”

He also shared how his coworkers used their refunds:
✅ Staying afloat during job loss
✅ Paying medical bills
✅ Starting a college fund

“These are not fairy tales… they are proof of a policy functioning exactly as it should.”

05/19/2026

We’re continuing to advance one of the restaurant industry’s most important workforce priorities: immigration reform that reflects the realities operators face every day.

With nearly one in four restaurant workers born outside the United States—and labor shortages expected to persist—this isn’t a theoretical policy debate. It’s a core workforce issue impacting restaurants of every size and concept.

That’s why the National Restaurant Association has outlined three key principles to guide reform:
✅ Protect the current workforce
✅ Fix the work visa system
✅ Build a modern system for the future

Sean’s 90-second update breaks down why this matters and how these solutions support operators, employees, guests, and local economies.

05/07/2026

is a moment to recognize the power of small restaurants.
Independent and single‑unit operators are the backbone of our industry, creating millions of jobs, opening doors to new careers, and strengthening communities across the country.
With 9 out of 10 restaurants employing fewer than 50 people, small businesses truly make a big impact. We’re celebrating the people and ideas behind it all, and what’s ahead.

Don’t miss this special message from the Association's Chief Economist Chad Moutray.

05/06/2026

The Federal Trade Commission is taking a closer look at third-party delivery platforms and what that means for restaurants.

We’re gathering operator input to guide our approach. Share your perspective to make your voice heard: https://bit.ly/4tgh2dN

05/05/2026

Congratulations to Sean Kennedy, the Association’s Chief Advocacy Officer, on being named to Washingtonian’s 500 Most Influential People of 2026!

Each year, this list recognizes the advocates and experts shaping Washington’s most important policy conversations. Sean’s recognition reflects his continued leadership and impact on behalf of the restaurant industry—ensuring restaurant voices are heard on the issues that matter most. 🍽️

05/01/2026

The Trump Administration lifting the 10% tariff on UK whiskey is welcome news for restaurants and bars across the country.

UK whiskey is a core spirit offering for many operators, and lifting this tariff helps lower costs, stabilize supply chains, and protect customer choice—especially at a time when margins remain tight and affordability matters.

Trade decisions have real, on‑the‑ground impacts for restaurants, and this step provides meaningful relief for local businesses and the jobs they support.

04/30/2026

After the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency moved to block an Illinois law designed to lower credit card swipe fees on taxes and tips restaurant operators will be forced to maintain the swipe fee status quo instead.

These fees—set by dominant card networks—are among the highest costs operators face, often behind only food and labor. With margins already thin, actions like this only make it harder for local restaurants to stay profitable and serve their communities.

It’s time for Congress to act and pass the Credit Card Competition Act to bring competition, transparency, and fairness to the credit card payments system.

🔗 Read more: https://bit.ly/4vZtvFt

04/29/2026

The Restaurant Law Center is excited to welcome Robin Repass as its new Executive Director and Chief Legal Counsel.

Robin brings over 20 years of experience defending employers and working directly with regulators—and she’ll now lead the Law Center’s efforts to protect restaurants from unfair regulations and legal challenges in the courts.

The Restaurant Law Center exists for one reason: to make sure restaurants have a strong, independent voice in the judicial and regulatory process.

Learn more about the Law Center and its work: https://bit.ly/4dboDFK

04/29/2026

We’re proud to recognize Richard “Dick” Marriott as the 2026 National Restaurant Association Legends Award recipient.

Dick’s decades of leadership and advocacy have helped strengthen the restaurant industry and advance policies that allow restaurants and their employees to thrive. From his service as National Restaurant Association Board Chair to his leadership supporting the Restaurant Advocacy Fund, his impact reaches across the country.

Dick will be honored at the IFMA Gold & Silver Plate Awards this May in Chicago. Join us in congratulating a true champion of the restaurant industry.

Address

Washington D.C., DC

Telephone

+12023315900

Website

https://restaurantsact.com/

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