Calls on Senate leadership to protect vulnerable workers

Washington (March 19, 2020) – Today, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) called on Senate leadership to protect gig workers who are struggling during the coronavirus emergency. In a letter sent to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senator Markey says that the next relief package Congress considers must recognize that these workers are some of the most valuable employees during this crisis, but also the most vulnerable.

“The United States government must step up and provide economic support for every impacted worker,” writes Senator Markey. “But we must act with the recognition that one of the most vulnerable segments of our population is gig economy workers, who are likely to face some of the most challenging dynamics from this crisis.” 

In his letter, Senator Markey urges Senate Leadership to include key protections for gig economy workers including:

• Ensure that paid leave provisions specifically apply to gig workers
• Broaden paid leave provisions to include employees who are feeling sick 
• Expand paid leave to include workers at companies of more than 500 employees

A copy of the letters can be found HERE.

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