The fight to raise the minimum wage for tipped workers is escalating in Maryland.

What's happening: Legislation will soon be introduced in Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and others that could increase what employers must pay tipped staff.

Why it matters: As we're seeing in D.C. with Initiative 82, such laws overhaul how tipped workers are compensated and businesses function — especially in restaurants and bars, where tipping culture is ingrained.

• If the bills pass in D.C.-area counties, expect a growing regional impact on Washington's dining scene.

Driving the news: Montgomery County Council member Will Jawando told Axios he plans along with fellow council member Kristin Mink to introduce a bill in mid-September to phase out the tipped minimum wage.

• Shadowing D.C.'s Initiative 82, the bill proposes raising the tipped minimum wage incrementally, starting with a bump to $4 and then $8 in July of next year. That would be followed by $2 yearly increases until 2028.

Between the lines: Jawando emphasized the need to collaborate with small businesses for how to best implement new laws, as well as possible similar legislation that could provide support for business owners.

• "We can pay people a living wage and have a strong restaurant industry, and what's happening in other parts of the country proves that."

Catch up quick: Maryland raised the state minimum wage this year to $13.25 an hour — a hike that excluded the tipped minimum wage, which has remained at $3.63 for...

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