As a server at Olive Garden, I've experienced firsthand the challenges and frustrations that come with serving guests who indulge in the restaurant's popular never-ending items, such as soups, salads, and pasta bowls. These refillable choices encourage patrons to linger, often for hours, which not only occupies tables for extended periods but also places an undue strain on servers like myself. Despite the significant effort and time we invest, the rewards are often disproportionate, with many guests tipping a fraction of what they would for a regular meal.

This issue is magnified by the restaurant's three-table limit for servers and lack of a mandatory gratuity policy for large parties, which are often split into smaller groups, allowing them to bypass tip requirements. Such policies are detrimental to the livelihood of servers, many of whom rely on tips as a substantial part of their income. Countless friends and coworkers have faced monetary losses, despite working long and demanding shifts at a chain as successful and widespread as Olive Garden.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for restaurant servers in the United States is approximately $11 per hour, including tips. However, when tips are minimal, as they often are with never-ending items, servers' earnings can fall significantly below this average, making it challenging to cover basic living expenses.

To address this, I am calling for a policy change at Olive Garden to require an auto-gratuity of at least 18%  for parties of six or more. This change will ensure that servers receive fair compensation for their hard work and dedication, and will help sustain a living wage for all servers across Olive Garden's numerous locations.

Implementing an auto-gratuity policy aligns with practices already in place at many other restaurants and will guarantee that servers receive proper recognition and payment for their service. It is a necessary step towards ensuring that the hospitality industry values and respects its workers, acknowledging the pivotal role they play in the dining experience.

I urge you, whether you are an Olive Garden patron, employee, or advocate for fair labor practices, to support this petition. Your signature is a step towards fairness, respect, and equality for servers who are integral to the success of any dining establishment. Please sign this petition to make a positive change for those who serve you day in and day out.