Improving Labor Standards for Uber and Lyft Drivers in Chicago | Classifying Drivers as Employees Would Deliver Superior Outcomes

Uber and Lyft drivers are currently treated as self-employed “independent contractors.” This work arrangement prevents them from accessing basic labor protections, such as minimum wage, workers’ compensation, and unemployment insurance. The lack of labor standards has led to calls in the State of Illinois to categorize the drivers as traditional employees, either through a new … Read more

ON-DEMAND WORKERS, SUB-MINIMUM WAGES

The City of Chicago has experienced a significant increase in app-based transportation network provider (TNP) services, also called “ride-sharing” services. Drivers working for Uber, Lyft, and Via—the three TNP companies licensed with the city—are currently classified as self-employed “independent contractors,” an arrangement that prohibits them from accessing basic labor protections, such as minimum wage laws. … Read more