Seattle City Council unanimously passes premium pay for gig workers amid COVID-19
The Seattle City Council unanimously approved legislation Monday that would provide Seattle's gig economy workers, such as Instacart and DoorDash delivery workers, with premium pay during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Council Bill 119799 states that food delivery companies must provide their drivers with a $2.50 premium pay for each order completed in Seattle during the city's civil emergency, declared by the mayor on March 3.
The legislation is the first of its kind in the nation to give such compensation to gig economy workers and comes as food and grocery delivery has become an essential lifeline to those adhering social distancing guidelines during the pandemic and for restaurants trying to stay in business.
"We heard from many gig workers asking for increased protections, including hazard pay, during the COVID-19 crisis," said councilmember Lisa Herbold, who co-sponsored the bill. "Gig workers are essential workers. They’re working on the frontlines of this crisis providing for our community, including delivering meals and groceries to families and seniors who have to self-isolate. Seattle will always be a place that fights for our most vulnerable and will protect all workers."
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