Seattle leaders celebrate major win for workers in 15M Uber Eats settlement

Seattle's $15 million settlement with Uber Eats is the largest ever for the city's Office of Labor Standards, directly benefiting 16,120 workers. Mayor Bruce Harrell celebrated the agreement as a landmark victory for labor rights, asserting that Seattle will hold corporations accountable for their obligations. The settlement addresses violations related to independent contractor laws, which require transparency in job pay before and during employment. A smaller portion of the settlement relates to minimum wage violations for app-based delivery workers. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Uber agreed to settle and will implement new policies to comply with local regulations.

This development occurs amid rising political tensions, as Harrell and allies face progressive challengers in the November elections. The city previously considered rolling back worker protections, highlighting a shift in political dynamics. Payments are expected to be disbursed to affected workers by Labor Day.