Uber recently announced an investment of more than $1 billion in benefits for California drivers and couriers under Proposition 22 (Prop 22). The proposition, which was passed in 2020, provides significant protections and guarantees to workers in the state. According to Uber, since the passage of Prop 22, drivers and couriers in California have received over a billion dollars in minimum earnings guarantee and additional benefits, highlighting the ongoing impact of the law.

Among the benefits provided under Prop 22 are a Minimum Earnings Guarantee, a Health Care Stipend, and Occupational Accident Insurance. The Minimum Earnings Guarantee ensures that earners receive at least 120% of minimum wage and $0.35 per mile for each ride or delivery. Qualifying drivers also receive a monthly stipend of up to $489.54 to help cover healthcare costs, and there is additional insurance coverage for medical expenses and lost income resulting from job-related injuries and illnesses.

Independent surveys have shown that nearly 90% of California drivers support Prop 22, citing the protections it offers for independent work and flexible schedules. The benefits provided by the proposition have been well-received by drivers, with many expressing their appreciation for the flexibility and safeguards it provides.

One driver, Alex P from San Francisco, shared, "Since retiring last year, I’m driving Rideshare in San Francisco to supplement my Social Security averaging $40 per online hour including tips and the Prop 22 healthcare stipend while driving UberX." Another driver, Shanita M from Los Angeles, highlighted the flexibility of being able to work on her own terms, stating, "I’m able to provide for myself and my family whenever I need to earn more since Uber allows us the autonomy to create my own schedule."

Stephen H, a driver from Los Angeles, emphasized the importance of flexibility and autonomy in his work, saying, "I live in the best of both worlds in retirement and still working for myself." Elisa S, a driver from Sacramento, also stressed the significance of flexibility in today's workplace, stating, "Having the freedom and flexibility to choose in today’s workplace helps adapt with ease to new situations in a new evolving world."

Overall, Uber's investment in Prop 22 benefits demonstrates the company's commitment to supporting its drivers and couriers in California, providing them with essential protections and resources to thrive in the evolving gig economy.