Sen. Warner Statement on Uber-Machinists Announcement

Statement

U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement on the announcement by Uber and the International Association of Machinists that they will form the "Independent Drivers Guild" to represent Uber drivers in New York City:

"For more than a year I have argued that the 21st century economy requires new and innovative solutions in order to allow workers access to benefits that have traditionally been offered by a full-time employer. Whether an employee is part of the gig economy by choice or a contingent worker by necessity, there must be some form of shared responsibility for providing workers with a level of social insurance.

"Local experimentation is crucial if we are going to find a workable model for portable benefits. I am encouraged that Uber is taking a first step to engage in these conversations. I recognize that a model designed for virtually full-time on-demand drivers in our nation's largest city may have outcomes that are limited in application for workers elsewhere, and I also believe that we need to expand the discussion around portability beyond traditional benefits such as healthcare, retirement or workers compensation, to address the challenges posed by income volatility. These are important reasons why I will continue to push for innovative experimentation in communities across the country.

"I appreciate what the Independent Drivers Guild is contributing to this important conversation and look forward to continuing to engage with Uber, the Machinists, and other on-demand companies who are willing to participate in this discussion."

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