This campaign starts in California—with the goal of securing stronger minimum-wage protections nationwide.

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the State of California increase its minimum wage to assist employees in meeting the ever-increasing costs of living and to achieve greater financial stability.

California's statewide minimum wage is $16.90 per hour in 2026 and is scheduled to rise to $17.40 on January 1, 2027. State law already provides annual inflation adjustments, and some localities and industries have higher minimum wages.

California is among the most expensive states to reside in; therefore, numerous hardworking individuals and families are unable to meet their most fundamental needs (i.e., housing, food, transportation, utilities, and healthcare) even though they work full-time.

The cost of living in California continues to place a heavy burden upon many minimum wage workers. Many workers are finding it increasingly difficult to earn sufficient funds to pay for their essential needs.

Workers should not be forced to make a decision between paying rent, purchasing groceries, and/or meeting other essential expenses. All workers who work hard deserve the chance to support themselves and their families.

An increased minimum wage could help workers whose earnings increase better manage their finances and improve their quality of life. An increased wage could help reduce financial stress, make it easier for families to meet their basic needs, and improve workers' ability to save for emergencies and future objectives.

Additionally, an increased minimum wage could benefit local communities as workers with additional disposable income would likely spend more money at neighborhood businesses, restaurants, and stores.

Some businesses may express concern regarding how a higher wage would increase their operational expenses.

However, a properly structured wage increase implemented over time could give businesses more time to plan while raising the wage floor for employees. State leaders should consider the needs of both workers and small businesses when developing a fair and sustainable policy.

We believe that full-time employment should serve as a reasonable base for financial security. Individuals who contribute their time and energy to California's economy should receive compensation that accurately reflects the cost of living in their respective communities. Implementing an increased minimum wage could be an important first step towards alleviating economic hardship and creating more opportunities for working families.

Therefore, we respectfully request that California's legislators support legislation that raises the statewide minimum wage beyond increases already required by law, sets a clear phase-in schedule, and builds on existing inflation adjustments to better reflect the cost of essential goods and services in California.

California is our first step—not the finish line.

After securing stronger protections in California, our goal is to take this campaign to other state legislatures and to Congress. We will advocate for higher state minimum wages, a stronger federal minimum wage, and regular adjustments that help wages keep pace with essential costs. Nationwide reform should preserve stronger state and local protections while recognizing differences in living costs between communities.

Starting in California gives us a concrete place to demand action and build a model for broader reform. Our long-term goal is the same across the country: full-time work should provide a stronger path to financial security.

By signing this petition, we advocate for fairness, economic opportunity, and a better future for workers in California and across the country. We urge state leaders to take meaningful action so that hard work provides a stronger path toward stability, independence, and a decent standard of living.

Sign and share this petition to demand a higher minimum wage—starting in California and building toward nationwide reform.