The Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) recently marked the two-year anniversary of the city's App-Based Worker Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST) Ordinance. As reported by the City of Seattle, since May 1, 2023, OLS has responded to over 143 worker inquiries and complaints, recovering more than $100,000 for 137 workers through investigations and dispute resolutions.
In a recent case, OLS took up allegations against the online staffing firm Wonolo for not complying with several labor laws included in the App-Based Worker PSST, Gig Worker PSST, and Gig Worker Premium Pay Ordinances; they alleged failures to pay required premium pay for delivery drop-offs within Seattle, and not providing, among other things, a notice of rights and written policies detailing PSST to their workers. According to the city's announcement, Wonolo has consented to a settlement of $122,388.36 to 419 gig workers and will pay fines amounting to $3,991.78 to the City of Seattle.
"App-based workers often rely on each paycheck, making it difficult to take time off when they are sick or need to care for family members," OLS Director Steven Marchese explained in the city's announcement, "Paid sick and safe time allows them to take leave without financial strain and helps prevent the spread of illness to others." Marchese also noted that the majority of companies seem to be either complying or making strides towards compliance with the PSST Ordinance which is partially due to the enforcement experience of OLS from its earlier Gig Worker counterpart.
For additional details on the App-Based Worker PSST Ordinance and related laws, including the App-Based Worker Deactivation Rights Ordinance and App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinances, the public can visit the OLS webpage dedicated to App-Based Worker Ordinances. Assistance available through OLS encompasses both company compliance aid and worker support for questions, complaints, or information, with resources accessible via phone call at 206-256-5297, email at [email protected], or through an online web form.
