Co-author of “analysis” critical of Protect App-Based Drivers & Services Act gives speech at rally organized by opposition campaign

SACRAMENTO – Far from being independent or neutral, the Berkeley Labor Center – an organization led by labor unions – has joined with the campaign opposed to the Protect App-Based Drivers & Services Act, a ballot measure aimed for the November 2020 ballot. On Wednesday, Michael Reich, the co-chair of the Center and the co-author of a deceptive and flawed “analysis” of the ballot measure, spoke at a rally organized by opponents.

Here are some actual facts about the pay and benefit guarantees contained in the measure:

FACT – The initiative sets an earnings floor, not a ceiling, of at least an amount equal to 120% of the minimum wage + $0.30 per mile during engaged time. Drivers can never earn less than this guarantee.

FACT – The minimum pay guarantee works out to at least $21/ engaged hour in gross pay, depending on local minimum wage and miles driven.

FACT – The measure provides app-based drivers a healthcare stipend consistent with employer contributions under the Affordable Care Act. Drivers who work 25 hours per week or more earn an amount equivalent to 82% of a Covered California Bronze health insurance plan. Drivers begin earning the healthcare stipend after working 15 hours a week.

READ – More detailed rebuttal of the Center’s “analysis” from Uber here.