Regulations

Federal Judge Rules Uber Drivers Are Not Employees

Posted on April 17, 2018
(Creative Commons image by 401(K) 2012 via Flickr.com)
(Creative Commons image by 401(K) 2012 via Flickr.com)

Uber has been fighting the perception that its drivers should be employees for quite some time. Both the UK and the state of California have concluded that drivers should be considered employees and entitled to minimum wage, holiday pay, and other benefits. Now, however, a US judge in Philadelphia has ruled that UberBlack drivers are not, in fact, employees under federal law.

The ruling only applies to Uber's limousine-like service, but could set precedence for the entire ride-sharing industry and the associated gig economy.

engadget.com article here

In a statement released April 16, National Limousine Association President Gary Buffo responded to the decision on behalf of the group's membership:

“The notion that transportation network company (TNC) drivers are independent contractors and not employees is entirely false, and an affront to the hard work and ambitions of thousands of Americans who are seeking a steady income to support themselves and their families. In fact, it appears these drivers are nothing more than a stop-gap measure while many of these companies work to develop autonomous vehicles with the goal of replacing those who helped build the company in the first place. When interpreted properly, the Fair Labor Standards Act clearly defines these men and women as employees, who should be afforded healthcare, workman’s comp, and all of the benefits that employees of chauffeured car companies enjoy as a result of their employment. The National Limousine Association will continue to work tirelessly with lawmakers, to ensure that all transportation industry workers are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.”

Related Topics: employee vs independent contractor, federal regulations, labor laws, Pennsylvania operators, regulatory enforcement, TNCs, Uber, wage lawsuits

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Comments ( 2 )

  • Mike

     | about 10 months ago

    I have always believed and still do that Uber "Super " is just another word play like Alt -Lt or Alt Rt just another Tech company using borrowed money going after low hanging fruit. And our state an local gov took the bait. Just because they are commissioners that doesn't make them smart "Uber" Lol!! Using just a adjective for a word like rideshare. Took full advantage of the system smh.. I'm no attorney norbrain surgent. But the Minute they stood up in any city or state transportation meeting and told our commissioners Mayors or Govners that they're are not a transportation companies should have been the min Our so called learders put a stop to this.. do not pass go don't collect your $200 dollars.. wait wait im tripping our leaders have already taking the money my Bad.. Here's the rub the next time a mayor or leader says he loves rideshare and he or she started a business ask them how would that feel if gov decided to deregulate their business to allow you to sell across the street with no permits or background checks no occupation licences. Better yet.. loan me a few Billion dollars and I'm sure I could put a ton of hard honesty workers out of business..

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