California voters dealt a blow to gig workers’ fight for more income and job benefits by overwhelmingly approving an Election Day measure that classifies ride-hailing and delivery drivers as independent contractors and not employees. App-based companies spent over $200 million to persuade voters to back the measure – and Uber and Lyft even threatened to leave California unless they did.

While the debate over gig economy jobs often pits the flexibility that comes with independence against the perks of being an employee, gig workers ultimately want both, writes Juliet Schor. Her research shows it isn’t just wishful thinking – and begins with giving gig workers a voice.

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  • Bryan Keogh

    Senior Editor, Economy + Business

    Proposition 22 reverses a 2019 state law. AP Photo/Richard Vogel

    California voters decide Uber and Lyft drivers are ‘contractors’ as gig workers continue search for a livable wage

    Juliet B. Schor, Boston College

    The debate over how to classify gig workers pits flexibility against the higher incomes and benefits that come with being classified as an employee.

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