Working in the gig economy clearly has its advantages for the modern workforce. Workers get to choose their hours, allowing them flexibility in their lives as they earn a supplemental income. Recently, however, some have expressed concern over the lack of traditional employee benefits in the field.
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees, which leaves them in a tight spot if they depend on the gig economy for their livelihood. And they are not the only one. Food delivery startups classify their drivers or couriers the same way. Unlike regular employees, independent contractors can’t collectively organize and form unions to fight for their interests. It’s been a difficult fight, but some groups are pushing to change that.
Washington
In Seattle, The Washington Post reported how the city council worked with the Teamsters to write a bill that would grant independent drivers collective bargaining rights. But the Seattle mayor originally refused to sign the bill. His reason? He knew it would cost the city too much to defend it in court. Indeed, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce eventually filed a lawsuit against the city for violating anti-trust laws. This comes as Uber continues to try to convince its drivers that collective organizing is inappropriate for the Uber platform.
California
Down in California, the Los Angeles Times reported on Assemblywoman Lorena S. Gonzalez’s bill that would allow 10 or more independent contractors to organize union-esque groups and gain the right to fight for negotiations. This would include everyone working for hosting platforms like Uber, DoorDash and Postmates. The California bill also has its fair share of opponents, and may likely be challenged in court if it passes.
The future of those who earn their livelihoods within the gig economy remains unclear. With a clear lack of traditional benefits, it might seem appropriate for some independent contractors to keep this line of work purely supplemental. Until the rights and bargaining power of contractors becomes established, workers will need to find benefits like health and dental care through a third party like Stride or Beam.
If you’ve been following this blog you’re probably thinking “That’s some serious stuff! Politics? Where’s the comedic relief?”
It’s not always laughs and giggles unfortunately. The gig-economy, on-demand economy, 1099 economy, freelancer economy, whatever they call it, is great for making money on a flexible schedule but it comes with caveats. You couriers/drivers probably know this too well. Things like wear and tear on your car, low wages at times, and gas expenses to name a few. Additionally, there are bigger issues that is much more political like workers protection and benefits.
The future of the gig-economy isn’t too clear. Gloomy at best. My advice is simply make as much money as you can now because self-driving cars will put you out of a gig soon. Seriously. Check out the content of the blog and courier hack the heck out of these platforms and make as much money as you can because right now is probably the most money you can make from it.
