**Disastrous Gig Worker Laws Prove Progressive Policies Fail Once Again**
In a stunning revelation, a recent study by the National Bureau of Economic Research has confirmed what many conservatives have long suspected: Seattle’s 2024 gig worker law has been a catastrophic failure.
Originally hailed by progressive leaders as a victory for gig economy workers, the law—which mandated a minimum wage of $26.40 per hour for drivers—has led to significant economic turmoil for both workers and consumers alike.
Just months after its implementation, evidence emerged that the law backfired spectacularly. DoorDash reported a staggering 30% drop in order volume, with drivers logging hours without any compensation. Thanks to the law's restrictions and increased fees, many customers abandoned delivery apps altogether, seeking to avoid exorbitant charges that turned a simple meal delivery into a costly endeavor.
Local restaurant owners, like Uttam Mukherjee of Spice Waala, lamented the impact of the increased fees, noting that the price for a typical meal surged from $12-$15 to a ridiculous $35-$40 when ordered through delivery apps. Unsurprisingly, this left many potential customers unwilling to place orders, leading to a decline in business for local eateries.
The study highlights that while base pay for drivers temporarily spiked, it ultimately did not translate into higher overall earnings. This is emblematic of a broader failure in leftist economic thinking—market-entry barriers and regulations only serve to stifle growth and innovation, harming the very workers they purported to protect.
Seattle's scenario serves as a cautionary tale. Rather than fostering a thriving gig economy, the city's progressive policies have created a stifling environment that drives businesses away. In contrast, cities without similar stringent regulations—like Denver and Portland—saw delivery revenues grow significantly.
As if this weren't enough, lawmakers in Washington are now pushing a new proposal to raise taxes on high earners, a plan that could further damage businesses and drive job creators out of the state entirely. Critics argue that instead of learning from the failures of the past, political leaders are doubling down on misguided policies that prioritize high taxes and restrictive regulations over economic growth.
In a time when our nation is grappling with rising costs and economic uncertainty, the results from Seattle's gig worker law should serve as a reminder of the dangers inherent in progressive governance. The lesson is clear: deregulation and market freedom, not an increase in taxes or burdensome rules, are what will ultimately empower workers and uplift communities.
As America moves forward, it’s critical to heed these warnings and reject policies that have repeatedly failed to deliver on their promises.
Sources:
legalinsurrection.combreitbart.cominfowars.com