New York Could Ensure Benefits for Taxi, Uber Drivers

The New York City Council will consider legislation that would address a lack of employment benefits for 'gig economy' workers.

1 minute read

September 10, 2016, 11:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Sergey_R / Shutterstock

"As part of a broader push to help the growing number of workers relying on the so-called 'gig economy,' the New York City Council will consider legislation giving all Uber and taxi drivers access to 'portable' benefits like health care coverage, disability insurance and life insurance," reports Dana Rubinstein.

"The legislation, if passed, would effectively negate the effect of a 2014 Manhattan Supreme Court decision invalidating a similar fund created by the Bloomberg administration, one that the judge argued was illegal absent legislative action," adds Rubinstein.

The legislative action followed a new report released by NYC Council Member Brad Lander’s office and shared with Next City reporter Oscar Perry Abello. The report "delves into the reality of the growing gig economy and the shortcomings of local, state and federal laws around freelancing," according to Perry Abello. The report also "includes a slate of short-term and long-term policy priorities for the council to act upon."

FULL STORY: Council bill would provide health benefits for taxi, Uber drivers Read more: http://www.politico.com/states/new-york/city-hall/

Tuesday, September 6, 2016 in Politico New York

Community / Economic Development Transportation New York New York City Gig Economy Freelance Workers Health Benefits View More

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