[johnchristopher]

> We need a third classification for gig workers that affords them some protections while preserving the economic viability of ridesharing companies. Disregarding any problems we might have with specific companies, I think ridesharing companies are a benefit to consumers.

How about the ridesharing companies should provide - by law - for food and shelter (paid for with a pay cut from the gigs) until the employee/contractor can get his own food and roof ? That would offer some protections to people while keeping the economy going on ? It would also allow really poor people to get on the job wagon with some kind of peace of mind regarding the end of the month.

The companies could make a year-contract euro style so they would be certain the original investment isn't wasted and the employee/contractor has a job for a year until he becomes a regular contractor.

[kmlx]

"How about the ridesharing companies should provide - by law - for food and shelter "

so basically making gig workers even more dependent on the company?

[wutbrodo]

I have never understood the impulse of supposedly pro-labor people to expand the responsibility of employers towards their workers. Government is intended as the expression of our collective will, and as such is the conduit of our collective responsibility, including providing people with a resource floor to live with dignity.

Most people figure out as children that responsibility and power are intimately tied together, but apparently that concept escapes some people even into adulthood...

[humanrebar]

> Government is intended as the expression of our collective will, and as such is the conduit of our collective responsibility

Big if true

[threatofrain]

Do you want employers to provide housing because you think employers can spend money on housing and food better than employees? Believable.

But I am wary of the efficiency of company towns. In my perspective, things like housing, food, and medicine are "power vacuum" issues, where not taking up these issues is the same as leaving power (and responsibility) on the table for someone else to grab. I also think once power is taken away it's hard to get back.

I view the issues you're talking about as social and government issues, and I'm wary about ceding more and more responsibility to businesses simply because we think government sucks.

[m0zg]

They'll do that right as soon as you are required, by law, to use their services no matter the price.