Oregon Lawmakers Push Bill to Boost Rideshare Driver Pay and Protections Despite Uber Backlash

Oregon lawmakers are on the brink of introducing legislation that will increase earnings and improve the working conditions of rideshare drivers who work for companies like Uber and Lyft.

Senate Bill 1166 requires transportation network companies (TNC) to pay drivers a minimum of 0.39 cents per minute and $1.34 per mile. It also sets a minimum of $6 per trip.

Enhancing working conditions, the bill allows sick leave to be accrued, with drivers receiving one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours spent transporting passengers. A maximum of 80 hours can be accumulated, with 40 hours available annually.

Companies Like Uber and Lyft Will Have to Show ‘Just Cause’ Before Terminating the Employment of a Driver

TNC must also show ‘just cause’ to terminate the employment of a driver, and drivers will have the right to appeal via mediation or arbitration.

Yesterday, the Senate Committee on Rules voted for the adoption of a proposed amendment to the bill, and to advance the bill to the Senate floor for consideration.

The amendment removes proposals to establish a Driver Resource Center and lowers the minimum amount that drivers can earn per mile and minute. It also abolishes the creation of a task force to explore expanding access to unemployment, workers’ compensation, and paid leave for drivers.

Companies like Uber and Lyft will be expected to submit regular data reports, including information about trip volumes, driver earnings, and deactivation rates.

Violations will be penalized by up to $1,000 per transgression.

Uber Says New Legislation Will Dramatically Increase the Cost of Rideshare Transportation

Uber is critical of Senate Bill 1166, pointing out that the proposed legislation will dramatically increase the cost of rideshare transportation, and reduce access to affordable transport options.

Furthermore, Uber says the bill will ultimately result in fewer earning opportunities for drivers. Uber argues that Oregon rideshare drivers already earn a competitive income and that the proposed legislation will make rideshare among the most expensive nationwide.