Reps. DelBene, LaHood Introduce Legislation Aimed to Empower Small Business by Extending Tip Tax Credit

Press Release

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA) and Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) introduced H.R. 6836 today to update and modernize existing laws to provide equitable treatment and administrative relief to small businesses engaged in the hair care and beauty service industry. This legislation would extend the Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) tax tip credit--which is currently available to the food service industry--to employer-based beauty service establishments where tipping is also customary. Currently, over 80 percent of the 1.2 million beauty industry businesses employ less than ten employees, which are predominantly owned and operated by women and minorities.

"This legislation is a commonsense bipartisan solution that brings parity to main street business owners and their employees. Individuals in the hair care and beauty industry -- disproportionately women and minorities -- rely heavily on tips to support their families. These individuals should receive the same benefits as those in other industries who are currently enjoying a fairer, simpler approach to tax administration for tipped workers. I believe this legislation offers equal treatment under the tax code and much needed financial relief for small businesses that support our communities," said DelBene.

"As Congress continues to work to improve opportunities for small businesses and taxpayers by modernizing our tax code, I believe the bipartisan legislation we are introducing today will create a more level playing field for small businesses, will improve reporting of tip income, and will help businesses navigate IRS administrative rules and procedures," stated Rep. LaHood. "In an industry where the majority of businesses are owned and operated by women and minorities, these long overdue improvements to the tax code will provide direct relief to thousands of small business owners and millions of professionals, much like similar industries have benefitted from for decades."

"FICA Tip Tax Fairness is extremely important to the health and profitability of my small business. I run at a very minimal profit margin and any additional relief I can receive will allow me to give more benefits to my staff, upgrade my business and offset soaring medical bills. I am extremely forthcoming with all of my reporting and pay an exorbitant amount of taxes. Any relief will be welcomed and help to even out the playing field within our industry," said Lisa Power, who owns a salon in Seattle.

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