I'm 46 years old and still struggle to afford rent in Salt Lake City, Utah. The cost of food and housing has skyrocketed, and although jobs are available, they are overwhelmingly low-paying. I dream of having my own place one day, but with the current minimum wage set at $7.25 per hour, that dream seems increasingly out of reach.

Utah's minimum wage has stagnated for years, remaining at the federal minimum despite the rising cost of living. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a full-time worker in Utah earning minimum wage takes home just $15,080 annually, far below the poverty line for a family of two. Meanwhile, everyday expenses continue to increase. Rent prices in Salt Lake City have soared by over 30% in the past few years alone, as reported by Zillow.

Raising the minimum wage to $20 per hour would not just benefit me but countless others in our community. It would mean the difference between struggling to make ends meet and having a stable foundation on which to build a future. It’s not just an economic necessity; it’s a moral imperative.

Increasing the minimum wage would stimulate local economies and reduce dependency on social assistance programs. Higher wages lead to more spending within the community, boosting businesses and generating more jobs. Additionally, several studies, including those from the National Employment Law Project, show that higher wages contribute to lower employee turnover and greater productivity.

Now is the time to advocate for higher wages that reflect the true cost of living in Utah. Together, we can push for a change that supports our community and ensures that everyone has a fair shot at a decent life.

Please sign this petition to urge Utah's lawmakers to raise the minimum wage to $20 per hour. Your support can make a difference for thousands of Utahans who are fighting to live with dignity.