Living in Philadelphia for over a decade, I've seen first-hand the hardships faced by residents striving to make ends meet on the current minimum wage of $7.25 an hour. Hearing countless stories from my fellow Philadelphians, it's evident that families are struggling to cover even the basic necessities such as housing, food, and healthcare. I have experienced these challenges myself and know the current wage is no longer sustainable given today's cost of living.

The federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour has not changed since 2009, which is now over 14 years ago. During this time, the cost of living in Philadelphia has drastically increased, making it one of the most expensive places to live in Pennsylvania. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation has risen by approximately 20% since the wage was last set, further widening the gap between stagnant wages and rising expenses.

Raising the minimum wage to $25 per hour in Philadelphia is not just a necessity—it's a moral imperative. This change would improve the quality of life for many, reducing poverty levels and providing a more equitable wage structure. States and cities across the U.S., including neighboring New York and New Jersey, have witnessed positive impacts after increasing their minimum wages.

A wage adjustment would also stimulate local economies. When low-income workers have more money, they can spend more on goods and services in their neighborhoods, boosting local businesses and creating more jobs.

It is time for Philadelphia lawmakers to take action and pass legislation that reflects the economic realities of our time. By raising the minimum wage to $25 an hour, they would be taking a step toward ensuring that every Philadelphian has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. Join me in urging our local government to make this critical change.

Please sign this petition to support raising the minimum wage in Philadelphia to $25 per hour. Your voice can help bring this much-needed change to our community.