Michael Wolfe, Executive Director of Drive Forward Seattle, expressed concerns in an op-ed regarding the adoption of earning standards schemes like Oregon's SB 1166. He argued that such policies are crafted by individuals lacking an understanding of the industry's economics and hinder flexible earning opportunities.
"We opposed the type of earning standards scheme in SB1166 when it was proposed in Washington, and we continue to oppose any state from adopting these schemes now," said Wolfe. "They've been crafted by people who do not understand the economics of the industry."
According to Wolfe, Oregon’s SB 1166 mirrors failed policies in Seattle and King County that led to higher consumer prices and fewer ride requests. After similar pay standards were implemented in Washington, trip volume dropped by 42%, while per-trip driver earnings rose just 42.5% after inflation adjustment, resulting in a 17.4% monthly earnings decline for typical drivers. The group warns that SB1166 could reduce overall driver income and consumer access, despite offering benefits like paid sick leave and deactivation protections.
Medium reported that Seattle’s PayUp and Fare Share laws, which impose fixed per-minute and per-mile pay rates for rideshare and delivery workers, have backfired by inflating consumer prices and shrinking demand. The company cites a 30% drop in Uber Eats orders and reduced availability of trips, leading to fewer earnings opportunities despite higher per-trip pay. Uber contends the regulations are based on exaggerated cost assumptions, resulting in a market contraction that harms the very workers the rules were meant to support.
CBS News highlighted that a proposed Minnesota bill aimed at establishing minimum pay rates and protections for rideshare drivers was vetoed by Governor Tim Walz due to concerns about affordability and access to service. Uber had warned that if the legislation passed, it would drastically limit service outside the Twin Cities and convert most drivers to part-time, scheduled shifts. While proponents said the bill aimed to ensure fair compensation, opponents feared it would unintentionally reduce flexibility for drivers and raise costs for riders, ultimately shrinking the availability of rideshare services across the state.
Wolfe has been a part-time rideshare driver since 2015 and previously served on Drive Forward Seattle’s Member Advisory Committee. He brings over 15 years of experience in Travel and Hospitality Management, along with more than a decade of community organizing and issue advocacy.