OLSE fees (Item 200)

Spoke for the San Diego County Lodging Association in support, asking only for a report back within a year on how the fee revenue is used.

Questioned whether undocumented workers would be covered or counted under the fee, saying the program leaves them unprotected.

Supported the fee and endorsed an annual audit of how the money is spent, calling for better employee protections.

Spoke in favor, asking whether the program also protects workers' rights to unionize.

Noted workers can also use private attorneys for wage disputes and suggested notifying green card workers about federal voting restrictions.

Thanked the council and hoped public comment would be taken to heart in studying the item.

Opposed the fee, arguing it shifts costs to businesses during a budget crisis and questioning the actual net savings to taxpayers.