Seattle Delivery Deactivation Bill

Starting January 1, Seattle’s App-Based Worker Deactivation Rights Ordinance takes effect for certain couriers delivering through apps like Uber Eats in the City of Seattle. Below is a summary of key requirements and what you need to know:

Who Is Covered?

This ordinance applies to couriers who:

• Completed at least 25% of their trips in the City of Seattle in the last 180 days or were deactivated for incidents in Seattle.
• Experienced deactivation (not including temporary suspensions).

Deactivation Requirements

• Clear Policy: Couriers must be provided a clear, accessible deactivation policy outlining violations that may result in deactivation. You can find Uber’s deactivation policy here.
• Fair Process: Deactivations must be based on thorough investigations and supported by evidence. Immediate deactivations are allowed for egregious misconduct but require a follow-up investigation.

Appeals Process

• Couriers can initiate a challenge to a deactivation within 90 days of notice.
• Appeals must be reviewed within 14 days, and responses must include substantiating evidence or a reinstatement decision.

Deactivation Notices

In general, deactivation notices include, among other things: * Reasons, effective dates, and steps to remedy the deactivation, if any. * Access to records substantiating the deactivation.

For deactivations that do not involve egregious misconduct and are not required by law or court order, couriers will receive 14 days notice.

For egregious misconduct, notices must be provided no later than the effective date of deactivation.

Courier Rights

The ordinance provides: * Protection against deactivations based on hours worked, offer acceptance, or cancellations with cause. * Safeguards against retaliation for asserting legal rights.

Access to Records Couriers will have access to records supporting their deactivation. Records will be retained for at least three years.

For questions about these changes, contact our Support Team via the in-app Help Center.