The 1969 slogan, “Virginia is for lovers”, is being re-purposed in efforts to promote the restaurant industry. The Virginia Restaurant, Lodging and Travel Association wants to recognize the role of the restaurant industry in VA, that represents the ninth largest industry in the state. Simultaneously, the restaurant industry continues to add to the economy and local community with providing critical resources such as events, legislation to industry members and workforce development. Relying on the thriving mixed-use developments in neighboring areas, members of the VRTLA believe the restaurant industry will be promising. However, the VRLTA maintains its opposition to increasing the minimum wage and eliminating tips. On August 22, the anti-poverty nonprofit group Oxam ranked Virginia as the worst state for workers in the U.S. in the Best States to Work Index publishing. Virginia was marked 48th for labor-organizing rights, last for its wage policies and 49th for worker protections. Advocates for the elimination of tip credit argue that the current system creates financial uncertainty for employees during slow periods at a restaurant and at the whims of customers, creates an economic gap between front line workers and the back of the house, who do not receive tips to supplement their hourly pay. Additionally, the existing system heightens the susceptibility of employers practicing wage theft when tips fall short. UNITE HERE Local 25, which represents hotel and hospitality workers in the D.C. metropolitan area, has not adopted an official position on the “Virginia is for Restaurant Lovers” campaign yet, but political director Samuel Epps says the union would be concerned by any move that infringes on workers’ rights to fight for improved pay. “We believe that workers should be paid a living wage, and we will support workers who look for an increase in wages and benefits,” Epps said. “… We’re tracking [the campaign] and working with some our allies on it, but today, we do not have a position on it.”