Gov. Inslee Signs Gig Worker Deal

Agreement secures new benefits and protections for drivers, maintains independence

Apr 1, 2022

On Thursday night, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed landmark legislation granting rideshare gig work drivers new benefits, including paid sick leave and a minimum pay rate, and maintaining their status as independent contractors. The new law reflects an agreement between ride-hailing apps and the local Teamsters, including their affiliated Drivers Union.

“Today’s agreement goes a long way towards ensuring gig drivers get the benefits they need while maintaining the flexibility and independence that makes the job work for them,” said Chamber of Progress CEO Adam Kovacevich. “All Americans should have access to benefits like sick leave, and more states should follow Washington’s lead to support independent contractors right now.”

In February, Chamber of Progress published an economic analysis examining the correlation between the demographic makeup of communities in California and support for the gig work ballot initiative, Prop 22. The research found higher support for maintaining independent contractor status in communities of color and among women.

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Chamber of Progress (progresschamber.org) is a new center-left tech industry policy coalition promoting technology’s progressive future.  We work to ensure that all Americans benefit from technological leaps, and that the tech industry operates responsibly and fairly.  

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