Instacart, DoorDash, and other apps are making efforts to reverse Seattle's new gig worker pay law by targeting workers through surveys and requests for testimonials. They claim that gig workers are earning less and delivering fewer orders after prices were raised. These companies continue to push back on the law, despite it already being in effect, by lobbying against the proposals and sending out surveys to gauge the impact. The responses from the workers indicate that their experience on the app has worsened since the law took effect in January, with earnings down and wait times to claim orders up. Moreover, the companies are also adding fees for customers since the law took effect, prompting the city council to consider significant changes to the legislation in hopes of addressing the issue.
Key Takeaways
- Instacart, DoorDash, and other apps are trying to roll back Seattle's new gig worker pay law.
- Companies targeted workers via surveys and requests for testimonials to send to the city.
- Seattle gig workers are making less and delivering fewer orders after many raised prices.
- The companies claim that the pay law has led to decreased earnings and longer wait times for orders.
- The companies have added fees for customers since the pay law took effect.
Analysis
The efforts of Instacart, DoorDash, and other apps to reverse Seattle's gig worker pay law are likely to have significant consequences in the short and long term. This move could impact gig workers by reducing their earnings and delivery opportunities. The companies' lobbying and surveys may influence city council decisions and regulations. It is indicative of a broader struggle between gig economy platforms and labor laws, potentially affecting the business models of these companies and regulatory frameworks in other cities. This could lead to shifts in labor dynamics and the overall gig economy landscape, with potential effects on customer fees, worker protections, and industry profitability.