I work as a server in North Carolina , and struggle to make ends meet due to the antiquated subminimum wage of $2.13 per hour. This wage system is not just unfair; it is a glaring injustice to hard-working individuals like us who strive to provide the best service possible.

Despite the dedication and effort we pour into our jobs, many servers in North Carolina face a harsh reality: low wages and financial instability. The state's current minimum wage for tipped employees, held at $2.13 per hour, places us at a significant disadvantage. This sub-par wage does not reflect the work we do and perpetually leaves us at the mercy of unpredictable tips.

The federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, established back in 2009, itself is insufficient. Yet, the even lower subminimum wage further amplifies the economic burden on tipped workers, many of whom are women and primary family providers. Research consistently shows that tipped workers are twice as likely to live in poverty compared to those in other occupations.

According to a report by the Economic Policy Institute, North Carolina servers endure some of the lowest hourly earnings in the nation when tips are low or non-existent. This inequity can be traced back to our state's abysmally low tipped minimum wage. For countless servers, this translates to financial insecurity—choosing between paying essential bills or buying groceries. Our labor deserves more respect and value.

To address this issue, I propose that the North Carolina State General Assembly and the Governor work to eliminate the $2.13 subminimum wage for all tipped workers and implement an adjusted base wage that aligns with a livable standard. Raising the base pay to at least $5.25 per hour, or better yet, to match the living wage, would ensure that servers receive fair compensation, even in weeks where tipping is inconsistent.

Several states across the country, such as California and Washington, have already adopted a fair wage system where tipped and non-tipped employees receive the same minimum wage. These states have seen positive outcomes, including reduced employee turnover and increased job satisfaction without negatively impacting businesses. There's no reason North Carolina can't follow suit.

A fair wage is not only a moral obligation but a necessary step towards ensuring economic justice for all citizens. Urging our lawmakers to update this policy would not only empower workers but also drive economic growth throughout the state.

Join me in calling on the North Carolina State General Assembly and the Governor of North Carolina to rectify this situation. Our servers deserve dignity and financial stability for the essential work they provide. Sign the petition to support creating a fair wage for all workers in our state.