"We strongly condemn Federal Judge Lasnik’s decision to temporarily place a restraining order on the Seattle law that would classify drivers for companies like Uber and Lyft as employees. Uber and Lyft are transportation providers masquerading as “technology companies” that have expertly exploited loopholes in the law to classify their workers as independent contractors. The consequences have been catastrophic for thousands of drivers who are struggling to make ends meet.
"The work lives of the men and women who drive for Uber and Lyft are completely controlled by the companies. These companies can unilaterally lower their rate of pay, “switch drivers off” without due process and oversaturate the market by adding more and more drivers. Drivers lack a living wage and basic protections like health and unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation and overtime pay. That is why over 16,000 drivers in New York who work for these companies have signed up to join the Amalgamated Transit Union. These drivers need union representation and we applaud the efforts of everyone in Seattle who has worked to win them justice. We are confident this restraining order will be overturned."