Uber and Lyft drivers in Massachusetts will be earning at least $32 following the recent settlement declared by the state’s Attorney General, Andrea Campbell. Let’s explore, how it came to this and what it now means for the drivers.
A Game-Changing Settlement
This is not just a new pay structure that workers have been receiving in this organization: This is especially so given that it is filled with the pro- driver reward and precautionary measures. The state has been a recipe for ride-sharing companies, and both Uber and Lyft have recently committed to paying $175 million. A bulk of this money will go into paying the current and past drivers that are found within the company’s operations.
A Final Word Over Legal Protracted Litigation
The “wage and hour laws” have been a long-time subject of contention between Attorney General Campbell and Uber and Lyft. The companies attempted to alter the state’s employment laws by proposing a new ballot measure for the 2024 election that would offer better protections for drivers and lower pay requirements. But by reaching this settlement, attempts that were being made in this line have been brought to a halt. Campbell’s office made sure drivers got what they deserved: A fair wage and requisites are expected from everyone they employ.
Now debating is coming to a close before asking the drivers what’s in it for them?
First, drivers of the company can now expect to earn no less than $32.50 per hour. They also find paid sick leave, occupational accident insurance as well as health care stipends at their places of work.
Sick Pay / Sick Welfare and Medical Aid
They will be awarded one hour sick leave for every thirty hours worked with a maximum of forty hours per year. They can now see how many sick leaves they are entitled to and request it directly in the app which is so convenient. Furthermore, drivers will receive a health insurance reimbursement if they have worked more than 15 hours per week for either of the companies or both. This is something we get in addition to carrying out our duties – it is more like being given a health bonus!
Safety and Fairness
Part of the new deal involves drivers receiving occupational accident insurance with up to $1m coverage for injuries sustained while on the job. In addition, Uber and Lyft are obligated to provide drivers with crucial information about a trip in advance, including how long it will take, the destination and possible earnings.
No More Discrimination
Uber and Lyft are also not permitted to discriminate against drivers by his/her race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories. This means that nobody is discriminated against or given preference over the other based on their status in society or the number of employees they represent. Also, drivers with chat support are now available in-app that can communicate in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.
A New Page for Uber and Lyft
For both Lyft and Uber, this agreement is a major victory. Lyft noted this it as a major win for drivers who wish to remain independent while also acquiring new perks. Uber similarly referred to this agreement as what decent work in the share economy of the 21st century ought to look like. In a way they have closed the books on the past problems and are ready and excited for what this new operating model brings for the future.
