My wife suffers from severe anaphylaxis to latex, a condition that is not only life-threatening but also significantly impedes our daily lives. Something as simple as shopping for groceries or enjoying a meal out in a restaurant has become a perilous task due to the presence of latex gloves and balloons in public areas. Public transportation and trips to car dealerships are fraught with anxiety as we constantly fear exposure to latex.

Latex allergy, particularly anaphylaxis, is a legitimate health concern for millions of people worldwide. When someone with this allergy is exposed to latex, it can trigger a severe reaction that requires immediate medical attention and can potentially be fatal. Despite this, latex products like gloves and balloons are still widely used in places frequented by the public, posing a serious risk to those who are allergic.

Proper measures can be taken to ensure public spaces are safe and inclusive for everyone. By banning the use of latex gloves and balloons in public areas such as grocery stores, restaurants, public transportation, and car dealerships, we can dramatically reduce the risk of exposure for those with latex allergies.

Alternatives to latex are readily available and have been proven effective. Non-latex gloves made from nitrile, vinyl, or polyurethane are standard in many industries and just as durable and economically viable as latex gloves. Balloons made from mylar or other non-latex materials maintain the festive spirit without compromising anyone's health.

After having tried various other avenues, I've resorted to trying to spread this petition. My wife has anaphylaxis to latex, which has caused numerous issues when it comes to shopping, eating, etc. We've had bad exposures at restaurants, at grocery stores, at the Salt Lake City International Airport when traveling, and most recently, at the new Young Subaru location just trying to get our Outback serviced. We've tried going the legal route, only to be told our case is too small and not worth the time. We've tried working with the stores and and edcuating them, only to be told that we should look into going elsewhere because they do not wish to address the issue or that it could "negatively" affect their business plans.  So, I've started this petition and using social media to try and get support to drive change. At current, there are 8 states which have banned latex gloves and balloons from public transportation, public areas, hospitals, and food services. I would love to see Utah join that list.

Let’s make our communities safer and more accessible by eliminating latex hazards. We call upon public health authorities, business owners, and policymakers to take a stand against the use of latex in public spaces. Please sign this petition to protect those with latex allergies and promote a safer environment for everyone.