The loyal people working hard to deliver your every cravings at crazy hours of the day are finally getting some justice in NYC. Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga just declared an increase to app-based delivery workers’ minimum wage.
NYC’s more than 60,000 delivery workers are currently making an average of $7.09/hour. Once the new pay rate is implemented, they will be receiving and average of $19.96/hour. That’s almost a 300% increase in pay rate. It’s a “first-of-its-kind minimum pay rate for app-based restaurant delivery workers,” according the press release.
“Our delivery workers have consistently delivered for us — now, we are delivering for them. This new minimum pay rate, up by almost $13.00/hour, will guarantee these workers and their families can earn a living, access greater economic stability, and help keep our city’s legendary restaurant industry thriving,” said Mayor Adams.
The pay rate will initially begin on July 12, 2023 at $17.96/hour before increasing to $19.96/hour when it’s phased in fully on April 1, 2025. Annual inflation will adjust the pay rate from thereon.
“Delivery workers have kept New Yorkers nourished through the most perilous of conditions, delivering food right to our doors throughout the pandemic and unprecedented weather conditions in the past,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer.
Currently, app-based delivery workers spend 60% of their working time on trips and 40% on-call, found the DCWP. This new pay rate will ensure that apps who compensate their workers for all of their time (trip time + on-call time) will pay $0.30 per minute, and apps that pay solely for trip time will pay $0.50 per minute, not including tips.
“Today, New York City takes a bold step towards fair labor practices and economic justice,” said New York City Councilmember Rita Joseph. “By establishing the nation’s first minimum pay rate for app-based restaurant delivery workers, we are ensuring that hardworking individuals are not left behind in the gig economy. This groundbreaking policy recognizes the value of their contributions and upholds our commitment to creating an equitable future for all.”