Uber Has Considered Benefits for Its U.S. Drivers, CEO Says
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi stated, at a conference, that the company would provide benefits to its workers, “if it’s something that can work in the ecosystem.” In recent legal decisions, Uber drivers have been defined as independent contractors rather than employees. This means that drivers are not entitled to the benefits given to employees. However, in Europe where labor laws are different, Uber is already offering some benefits for drivers such as parental and sick leave compensation. The benefits offered to European drivers are limited- only those who have completed 150 rides in the previous eight weeks are eligible. When asked to comment, Uber referenced a statement signed by the CEO earlier this year which advocates for the creation of a federal benefits system that can be utilized by independent contractors.
See "Uber Has Considered Benefits for Its U.S. Drivers, CEO Says", Glenn Fleishman, Fortune, September 28, 2018