November ballot measure protects the choice of drivers to work as independent contractors, while providing strong new benefits and protections

SACRAMENTO – A new, independent poll released by the Rideshare Guy found that nearly three quarters of app-based drivers surveyed prefer to be independent contractors, compared to only 17 percent who would prefer to be an employee. This poll is strong evidence that California politicians who are trying to prevent drivers from working as independent contractors do not represent the interests of those drivers.

This most recent survey was taken in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, and many drivers surveyed have experienced declining earnings due to shelter-in-place orders.

“These results do not surprise any of us who are choosing to drive rideshare or delivery. We’re making this choice because we prefer to be in control of our work and our lives,” said Patty Mulholland, a disabled Vietnam veteran who began delivering part time in the Bay Area when she started caring for an elderly family member. “But out of touch politicians keep pushing laws that undermine our clear desire to work independently. That’s why so many of us are strongly supporting the ballot measure that lets us keep our independent contractor status while giving us new benefits and wage guarantees.”

The push to force an employment classification on app-based drivers would result in the widespread elimination of earning opportunities at a time when they’re needed most.

The ballot measure provides a better path, coupling independence with new protections and benefits for drivers. In addition to providing legal clarity that will ensure app-based drivers remain independent contractors, the Protect App-Based Drivers & Services Act, aimed for the November ballot, provides drivers with historic new benefits and protections, including:

• A guaranteed earning of at least an amount equal to 120 percent of minimum wage plus 30 cents per mile compensation toward expenses;
• A new health care contribution;
• Occupational accident insurance to protect against injuries and illnesses on the job.

This month’s survey echoes results from a similar survey done by the independent Rideshare Guy in November 2019. Over and over, drivers say they prefer to remain independent contractors by a 4:1 margin over those who want to be employees, even during a global pandemic.