Office of Labor Standards Marks Effective Date of App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinance and Extended Coverage of App-Based Worker Paid Sick and Safe Time Ordinance with Seattle Center Event
Office of Labor Standards Marks Effective Date of App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinance and Extended Coverage of App-Based Worker Paid Sick and Safe Time Ordinance with Seattle Center Event
Seattle, WA – (January 12, 2024) The Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) announces the App-Based Worker Minimum Payment (ABWMP) Ordinance goes into effect Saturday, January 13, 2024. Additionally, the App-Based Worker Paid Sick and Safe Time (ABWPSST) Ordinance will apply to all app-based workers who work at a network company that hires more than 250 workers worldwide beginning January 13, 2024.
"Gig workers are critical to Seattle's economy – and implementation of these new ordinances further reflects our shared efforts to advance the nation's strongest set of labor standards, so workers have the stability and support needed to succeed in our city,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell.
App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinance (APBWMP) - requires certain companies to provide a minimum payment for mileage and time worked to workers using their apps.
App-Based Worker Paid Sick and Safe Time Ordinance (APBWPSST) - requires certain companies to provide paid time off for app-based workers to use to care for themselves or family members.
The new protections for gig workers will be marked with guest speakers and live performances featuring Mirrorgloss and Foleada at the Seattle Center Armory main stage from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM on Saturday, January 13.
“This is an important step forward for Seattle app-based/ gig workers. Seattle's labor standards have undoubtedly been a pioneering effort in safeguarding the rights of gig workers, setting an example for the nation as having a gig economy that not only empowers businesses, app and gig workers, and consumers but also serves as a force for good, ensuring the welfare of all workers,” said OLS Director Steven Marchese.
“Knowledge of one's rights as an app-based worker in Seattle is essential for ensuring fair treatment, legal protection, access to benefits, and the ability to advocate for better working conditions. It can also contribute to financial security and personal safety. It's important for workers to be informed and, when necessary, seek legal or organizational assistance to protect their rights,” said Wei Lin, gig worker.
The public is also invited to visit OLS’ first of its kind art exhibit “Making Gigs Work” that has been on display at the Seattle Armory balcony since December 2, 2023. The OLS and Seattle Center Co-Produced Event partnered with community artists to highlight the work and protections of Seattle independent contractors and app-based/gig workers.
For more information about the ABWMP and ABWPSST ordinances please visit the OLS Ordinances webpage.
For event information call 206-256-5297 or email laborstandards@seattle.gov
