Senator Tillis just won a lifetime ticket for the Dum Dum Trolley [see below]

The junior Senator from North Carolina said he wouldn’t have problem with food service businesses opting out of regulations that require employees to wash their hands upon returning to work after a trip to the restroom. Why? Market forces would take care of it.

While discussing regulatory reform after an appearance at the Bipartisan Policy Center, Sen. Thom Tillis said

“As a matter of fact I think this is one where I think I can illustrate the point,” he recalled telling her. “I don’t have any problem with Starbucks if they choose to opt out of this policy as long as they post a sign that says we don’t require our employees to wash their hands after leaving the restroom. The market will take care of that. It’s one example.”

Tillis, who told the story with his right hand raised for emphasis, concluded that in his example most businesses who posted signs telling customers their food workers didn’t have to wash their hands would likely go out of business. Ah, the free market!  

Closing the event, Bipartisan Policy Center President Jason Grumet said, “I’m not sure if I’m going to shake your hand…”[added emphasis]

By the way Tillis is probably opting out on Global Handwashing Day, October 15.  

Dum Dum lollipops  on his Desk:  While Tillis was North Carolina State Speaker of the House  he kept a mug full of Dum Dum lollipops on his desk. If he thought an idea was, well, less than brilliant, he would reward its author with a sweet treat that sent a less-than-subtle message.