Comment from Locke, Tom

To whom this may concern, I am an independent McDonalds Owner/Operator in Ohio, where I own and operate 53 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 3000 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 build a legacy that I could pass onto my children as well as be able to provide opportunities to those I employ and my surrounding communities. . 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 contributions made to local schools, hospitals, sports teams, Ronald McDonald House charities as well as large foundations that are near and near to my heart such as the cystic fibrosis foundation Dolly Partons reading library and the diaper bank. . 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. Our McDonalds restaurants provide employees with continuing education through the McDonalds Archways to Opportunities program and a wide array of benefits, such as medical dental vision insurance, 401(k) plans, paid time off, flexible schedules, meal discounts, and life insurance.. 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. N/A. 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, Tom Locke Tomtreyco 3458 Massillon Rd, Green OH 44685