Comment from Rodriguez, Janet

To whom this may concern, I am an independent McDonalds Owner/Operator in your state, where I own and operate 4 restaurants. I appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the Department of Labors proposed rule on joint employer status under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act. The DOLs proposed rule will help franchisees like me continue to succeed and to deliver value to our employees and communities. I encourage the DOL to adopt the proposed rule. As an independent local business owner, I employ approximately 200 people. I am solely responsible for all employment decisions in my restaurants, including hiring, wages, benefits, scheduling, supervision, and discipline. I bear the economic risks of my business and am accountable for its success. I became a McDonald's franchisee because I wanted to have an opportunity for business ownership with support from a corporate partner and flexibility to reach our local community. As a first generation American, I wanted small business ownership that would provide a family legacy and opportunity for our people. . We wanted to build jobs, growth, and empowerment within our capabilities.. Owning and operating my own business is one of my proudest accomplishments, and it is something I do not take for granted. My restaurants provide important job opportunities in my community, often for individuals entering the workforce for the first time. I am also proud to support my community through RMHC, various local church, school and outreach programs for underprivileged members of our community.. The proposed rule provides important clarity by recognizing how franchise businesses actually operate. While I operate independently, McDonalds USA provides valuable support, such as training, technology, and operational resources, that helps me run my business more effectively. This support does not involve control over my employment decisions, and the proposed rule appropriately reflects that distinction. I independently determine the compensation and benefits I offer my employees. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits which include, tuition assistance, medical/dental/vision, STD & LTD, life insurance, free meals, 50% discount, several monthly, quarterly, and annual bonus programs, along with travel opportunities for reaching goals. Some of our offers came from the direction of staff requests. Our team has input in. Our structure.. I take pride in providing competitive opportunities tailored to my community. In addition to direct compensation, working in my restaurant(s) provides employees with valuable skills and experiences that benefit them throughout their careers, regardless of whether they work in the restaurant industry or elsewhere. All the educational and workforce programs enable our people to reach their goals while they are employed with our brand. It as been beneficial to secure financial freedom for many of the candidates.. To be clear, McDonalds USA does not hire or fire my employees, set wages or benefits, manage schedules, or supervise my team. My employees report to me and my management team, and we are responsible for their day-to-day experience. The proposed rule accurately reflects this reality. I urge the Department to finalize the proposed rule to ensure clarity and consistency for independent business owners like me, and to support the employees and communities we serve. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Janet Rodriguez JNJfoodsllc your organization address