I’m reaching out as a dedicated employee within the Department of Transportation. My colleagues and I strive to ensure the safety and efficiency of our transportation systems every single day, yet despite our crucial roles, we struggle to make a living that reflects the value of our work and the real cost of living today. Many of us find ourselves working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, sacrificing time with our families and our own well-being.

The ever-rising cost of living, paired with stagnant wages, has made it nearly impossible for us to save for retirement or cover necessary expenses such as insurance. With inflation eroding the value of our salaries, it becomes increasingly difficult to provide for our loved ones. We deserve better.

The reality is glaring: transportation workers play a fundamental role in society, and they should be compensated fairly. According to recent statistics, transportation industry wages have not kept pace with the national average, creating a significant gap between earnings and necessary living expenses. The federal and state governments need to rectify this by adjusting our salaries to not only match but exceed the cost of living increases across our region.

Let's propose a reasonable wage adjustment plan that reflects these increases consistently. This solution would involve annual evaluations of living costs and wages, ensuring that employees in the Department of Transportation receive fair and timely financial recognition. By advocating for fair wages, not only do we uplift our community, but we also ensure that transportation services remain effective and efficient, creating a positive ripple effect across the nation.

Please stand with us in this fight for fair compensation. Sign this petition today to call upon our lawmakers and the Department of Transportation leaders to adjust the pay structure, ensuring our ability to live and eventually retire with dignity. Together, let's bridge this wage gap and foster a supportive working environment for all.

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Retention, Inflation, and Reality: The Urgent Need for Pay Raises

Dear Members of the Legislature,
   I am writing to respectfully request a reconsideration of compensation for the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), particularly within the Motor Vehicle Division. Our team has consistently advocated for fair wages, yet we have encountered numerous obstacles and delays in securing appropriate adjustments. We understand that the state’s budget is finalized annually in June.

   ADOT MVD CSRs are the front line representatives of the department, entrusted with handling highly sensitive and confidential information. Our work involves processing personal identification data, security credentials, and vital records that are crucial for the safety and security of our community and country. The integrity and confidentiality of this information are paramount, and any breach or mishandling could have grave consequences for individuals and national security.

   Despite the critical importance of our responsibilities, we are always overlooked for raises and career advancement opportunities, even as other divisions within ADOT receive regular increases.

Raises

   Over recent years, our department has not received a meaningful wage increase. When raises have been granted, they have typically been limited to approximately 10%. In contrast, our CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) division has received annual raises and currently benefits from a $4,000 on-boarding incentive. Meanwhile, many of us are working full-time hours with part-time wages, struggling to meet basic living expenses. We kindly ask that our wages be adjusted to reflect the current cost of living in Arizona, especially considering that many state employees are compelled to work multiple jobs to subsist. According to SOFI, the estimated cost of living in Arizona is approximately $53,921 annually.
   More closely, the City of Flagstaff has raised their minimum wage to $18.35 an hour. Leaving them to make less than the minimum wage. It is time that wages are reconsidered.

Budget Proposal

   If budget constraints are cited as a barrier, I propose that we consider adjusting pricing structures for licensing and permits. Arizona remains one of the most affordable states for driver’s licenses and permits; however, other states charge between $90 and $120 for CDL- related services. Increasing fees for certain transactions—such as commercial driver’s licenses— could generate additional revenue to support fair wages for our staff. I have attached comparative fee data from other states for reference.

Why it Matters

   Pay disparities and inadequate compensation have significant impacts on our mental health and overall well-being. Insufficient wages contribute to stress, anxiety, and a decrease in morale, leading to increased absenteeism and a decline in service quality. Many customer service representatives (CSRs) are experiencing burnout, with some feeling undervalued and unsupported, which manifests in higher call-out rates. Additionally, CSR retention is at a record low because our pay is now equivalent to entry-level fast-food wages. Limited opportunities for internal growth within the Yuma and small branches have created a stagnant environment, driving employees to seek advancement elsewhere.
   Senator Mark Kelly, I have observed your support for ASU workers advocating for better pay. I sincerely hope you will extend the same support to us.
   Mrs. Adelita Grijalva, your reputation as a champion for progressive causes is well known. We respectfully ask for your leadership and support in advocating for fair wages for ADOT employees.

   Lastly, if a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached through dialogue, we believe that unionization may be a necessary step. Many government agencies have unions, and we believe it is time for the state department to establish one as well. After all, we are part of the government workforce.

Sincerely,

Concerned Customer Service Representatives (CSRs)