CUPE Alberta Champions New Legislation to Protect Workers' Tips

EDMONTON, Alberta — In a recent statement, Rory Gill, the President of CUPE Alberta, has voiced strong support for a new law aimed at ensuring that workers in Alberta can keep their tips without any deductions from employers. This legislation was introduced in the Alberta legislature and is seen as a significant step toward fair treatment of service workers.

Gill thanked Christina Gray, the Alberta NDP Leader of the Opposition, for her efforts in tabling this important legislation. He emphasized that tips from customers are meant to reward employees for their hard work and should not be diverted to employers. Gill stated, "When workers receive tips, it’s to acknowledge their work, not to give the boss a bonus." He pointed out that many consumers are unaware that a portion of their tips may not reach the workers, despite generous tipping options on payment screens.

Importance of Bill 210

This new legislation, known as Bill 210, the Employment Standards (Protecting Workers’ Tips) Amendment Act, mandates that employers are required to pass on all tips directly to workers without any deductions. The only exception to this is if there are voluntary pooling agreements in place among workers. For instance, servers and kitchen staff might opt to share pooled tips for collective benefit.

Bill 210 is part of a growing movement across Canada, as six other provinces already have similar laws in place to protect workers’ rights to their tips. Gill remarked, "As cash tipping becomes less common, it’s easy for an employer to hold onto the tip you select on the machine. Albertans know that’s wrong. We need a straightforward law that safeguards workers’ tips and supports their choice to pool tips voluntarily." He has urged all Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to back this bill to ensure that more money stays in the pockets of working individuals.

Next Steps

This significant reform aims to create a fairer working environment for service workers in Alberta, ensuring their hard work is duly rewarded. CUPE Alberta is optimistic about the passage of this bill and believes it will enhance financial security for workers in the hospitality and service industries.

legislation, workers, tips