This is the time of year when workers expect even the stingiest boss to show a little heart. A proposal by the U.S. Labor Department, however, would make it easier for millions of restaurant owners to indulge their inner Scrooge.
This month the department served notice that it intends to once again allow the practice of tip-pooling, which has been prohibited since 2011. That's fine so long as the change is accompanied by a ban on management taking a cut. Diners tip for food and service, not to help owners defray costs.