I moved to Utah from Arizona, where I earned an hourly rate of $18. Upon moving, I was shocked to find that Utah's minimum wage is a mere $7.35, nearly half of what I made in Arizona. Despite the drop in wages, my living expenses only increased since life in Utah costs more than in Arizona. This dynamic is surely felt by many others who make this minimum wage. It is a struggle; it's time for a change.

We propose that Utah's minimum wage be set on a path of gradual increase, with the goal of reaching $15 an hour. The first step in this process should be a $2 increase, raising the base wage to $9.35 annually. Subsequently, the minimum wage should be increased by a dollar each year until the $15 goal is reached.

This is not an unreasonable ask. The high cost of living in Utah necessitates a higher, fairer wage. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a living wage for a single adult in Utah would be $11.25 as of 2020. The fact that the minimum wage is less than this figure illustrates the hardship faced by low-wage earners in Utah.

By implementing these increments gradually, businesses will have time to adjust and react positively to these changes. Moreover, it will empower hard-working Utahns, improving their living standards and enabling them to cope with the high living costs in Utah.

Help pave a better future for all in Utah by demanding a gradual increase in the state's minimum wage. Sign this petition and share your support today.