California Court Unanimously Upholds Prop 22

The California Supreme Court unanimously upheld Proposition 22, allowing gig companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash to classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This decision affirms the will of the 58% of voters who passed the measure in 2020, despite opposition from labor unions and a group of drivers who argue it denies them essential employee benefits like paid sick leave and workers' compensation. Prop 22 allows gig workers some benefits, such as a guaranteed minimum wage and subsidies for health insurance, but critics claim it is a 'bait-and-switch' that benefits corporations at the expense of workers. The ruling concludes a lengthy legal battle that saw significant financial investment from gig companies to maintain their business models. While companies celebrated the decision as a victory for flexibility and economic freedom, labor advocates vowed to continue fighting for greater workplace rights and protections.