House Committee Rejects Fast Food Industry Reforms: “That burrito does not roll itself.”

RICHMOND, Va. – Late Tuesday night, the House Committee on Rules rejected Delegate Irene Shin’s legislation (HB 2478) that would establish the Virginia Fast Food Industry Workers Standards Board. It was a party-line vote, with 12 Republicans rejecting the bill, and five Democrats supporting the bill.

The Board would be primarily charged with investigating the working conditions and compensation of fast food workers, ensure that these standards are comparable to other states and offer recommendations to industry stakeholders. This bill allows the board to create recommendations and does not create any powers to change working conditions, wages, change the minimum wage, or any other industry practice.

“Throughout the pandemic, fast food industry workers have been on the front lines, preparing to-go food, feeding other essential workers, and feeding our families. Now, these workers have been stretched to their limits. And a tight labor market is making it harder and harder for fast food industry employers to fill these positions.” Delegate Shin said after the committee meeting.

Workers standards boards, wage boards, and safety and health boards have been in place in a variety of states for many years, including Minnesota, Washington, New York, and California.

“My hope is this bill starts the conversation between employers and employees in the fast food industry. Virginia is better served when our communities are fully supported through job growth, living wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. Let’s be clear: That burrito does not roll itself, and that burger does not flip itself. We need quality workers and working conditions for our fast food industry.” Delegate Shin said after the committee meeting.

Shin will continue to bring much-needed labor reform legislation in the coming legislative sessions.

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Delegate Irene Shin (D-Fairfax) currently represents the 86th District in the Virginia House of Delegates. Delegate Shin was first elected in 2021. The 86th District includes the Town of Herndon, and parts of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. Delegate Shin currently serves on the Counties, Cities and Towns Committee, and the Communications, Innovation and Technology Committee. Delegate Shin’s Legislative Agenda can be viewed here. Delegate Shin lives in the beautiful Town of Herndon in Fairfax County.

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