#United States #Washington #Congress #National Restaurant Association #Credit Card Competition Act

Key Opportunities for Congress to Support Restaurants

As we approach the 120th Congress, the National Restaurant Association is optimistic about the chance lawmakers have to bolster the restaurant sector, a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. Representing nearly one million establishments and employing 15.7 million individuals, the restaurant industry stands as the second-largest private employer in the country.

A Growing Concern for Affordability

President and CEO Michelle Korsmo emphasized that restaurants are critical to the dialogue on affordability, especially as consumers are reevaluating their spending habits. With rising operational costs and shrinking profit margins, many restaurant owners find themselves in a precarious financial situation. In fact, in 2025, 42% of restaurant operators reported not being profitable.

Korsmo stated, “Restaurants are at the intersection of the nation's affordability conversation, managing increasing costs while their customers scrutinize every dollar they spend.” This context presents a remarkable opportunity for Congress to enact favorable policies that can relieve burdens on operators and, ultimately, help consumers manage their dining out costs.

Legislative Opportunities for the New Congress

The Association has identified three urgent priorities for the upcoming Congress that directly impact the stability and success of the restaurant industry:
1. Immigration Reform: The necessity for legislative reform that allows restaurants to find, hire, and retain the workforce needed is paramount. With staffing challenges exacerbated by various factors, addressing immigration policies will make a significant impact on the industry's ability to thrive.
2. Credit Card Competition Act: This piece of legislation aims to foster competition in credit card processing. With processing fees often being the third-largest expense after food and labor costs, this Act could ease financial pressures on operators.
3. Stable and Predictable Trade Policies: Given the volatile nature of food and supply chains, maintaining stable trade policies is essential for keeping costs manageable for both restaurants and their patrons.

The Ripple Effect of Supporting Restaurants

Kennedy, the Chief Advocacy Officer of the Association, pointed out that decisions made at the federal level reverberate through local communities and restaurants. “When restaurants can invest and grow, the benefits extend far beyond our industry,” he noted. Stronger restaurants lead to job creation, bolstered local economies, and enhanced community vibrancy.

The progress made in recent years highlights the significance of bipartisan cooperation. For example, the passage of the Common Cents Act represents a monumental step forward, providing clarity for operators on cash handling as the country transitions away from the penny. This success showcases what can be achieved when both sides of the aisle come together to advocate for the industry.

Conclusion

Moving forward, the National Restaurant Association is committed to not only advocating for cost-saving measures for restaurants but also working towards enhancing the workforce and solidifying the industry's economic impact in the U.S. With various stakeholders relying on the vitality of the restaurant sector, this next Congress represents a pivotal moment for advancing policies that will help maintain affordable dining experiences while fostering the growth and sustainability of one of America’s most cherished industries. For more information on the Association's full policy agenda, visit Restaurant.org.

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association's mission is to serve not just restaurants but also the communities they enrich through advocacy, education, and safety measures. From its extensive support network to industry-leading events, the Association continually strives to empower every restaurant to reach its potential.