I am a restaurant worker based in Las Vegas, struggling in an establishment that lacks union support and imposes a mandatory 5% tip out from total sales to support staff. This system effectively requires me to give away $5 for every $100 made. When customers choose to tip less than 18%, or even nothing at all, I am faced with either receiving lower wages for the same workload or paying out of pocket to cover my support staff's share.

But unfortunately this is not just my harsh reality. Thousands of restaurant workers face this situation daily. Adding an 18% gratuity to all dine-in orders would protect us, the servers, from the consequences of inconsistent tipping practices, and mitigate the potential for wage disparity.

Statistically, a survey by the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United (ROC United) reveals that 14% of tipped workers live in poverty, compared with 6.9% of non-tipped workers. These sobering figures underscore the pressing need to reconsider our tipping system.

Let’s act now to establish an equitable system, one which supports restaurant workers and promotes financial stability in this fast-paced industry. It’s time for mandatory 18% gratuity on all dine-in orders. Sign this petition to help change the lives of restaurant workers in Las Vegas and nationwide.