Uber, Lyft promise to improve worker benefits in fight against gig law

The act would also require rideshare and delivery network companies to offer new protections and benefits, including insurance to cover on-the-job injuries and health care subsidies for qualifying drivers. (Photo: Shutterstock)

In response to a recently enacted California law requiring certain gig workers to be classified as employees and not independent contractors, a coalition led by Uber, Lyft and DoorDash have announced a November 2020 state ballot measure to counteract the new law — as well as add new protections and benefits to workers.

The Protect App-Based Drivers & Services Act, if approved by voters, would allow drivers with rideshare and delivery network companies to be classified as independent contractors, enabling them “the flexibility to set their own hours for when, where and how they work.”