Seattle is considering a plan to set minimum pay for Uber and Lyft drivers
Along with a potential tax on Uber and Lyft rides, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan’s office is considering legislation aimed at bolstering the rights of drivers who use the apps, including possibly setting minimum pay, according to internal city records and letters exchanged between the Mayor’s Office and one of the ride-hailing giants Monday.
Though the proposals have been under discussion for months, the administration is not yet releasing details about the tax or minimum driver pay.
Transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft have faced scrutiny over whether they worsen traffic and how they treat their drivers, who are considered independent contractors and are therefore not covered by the protections afforded to traditional employees.
Previously released records showed Durkan’s office had drafted the tax proposal, framing it as a way to address congestion and raise money for housing and transportation projects. Driver-focused legislation could deal with pay, benefits, ways to appeal sudden deactivations on the app or other issues.
Read more: https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/transportation/seattle-is-considering-a-plan-to-set-minimum-pay-for-uber-and-lyft-drivers/