PRLA Restaurant & Lodging Matters Summer 2021

Summer 2021 • PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters • 5 been introduced in the state legislature this session. Senate Bill 235, sponsored by Sen. Michelle Brooks, and House Bill 555, sponsored by Rep. Valerie Gaydos, would make it possible for Pennsylvania restaurants to access the Association Health Plan and affordably provide health insurance to their team members. The state legislature is in summer recess, so stay tuned to the Daily Update for more information about this legislation when they return to session in the fall. I hope that our industry never again faces mitigation like we have endured over the past sixteen months. With the efforts of the state restaurant and hotel associations and our partners in Washington and the collective voice of our members, we have been able to bring countless restaurants and hotels to the other side of the tragedy that otherwise would have been gone. That said, we now face the single biggest challenge or out time—the workforce shortage. Be assured that PRLA’s leaders, along with our national partners, will do everything we can imagine in bringing solutions. I would point out that a key aspect of the solution begins at home. Many operators that are known for a strong and positive workplace culture point are facing less desperate staffing challenges. As I see it, creating a great-place-to- work culture is one important remedy for our industry. •