Mexico City is on the cusp of enacting a significant labor reform aimed at improving working conditions for drivers and delivery workers employed by app-based platforms like Uber, Didi, and Rappi. The proposal, introduced by President Claudia Sheinbaum, is expected to progress rapidly through both chambers of the legislature in the coming week.
The reform is slated to be reviewed by the lower house labor committee on Friday, followed by a committee vote on Monday. If approved, the bill will proceed to the floor for debate on Tuesday, according to lower house leader Ricardo Monreal. Given the substantial majority held by the ruling Morena party and its allies in both the lower house and the Senate, passage before the December 15th holiday recess is highly likely. This expedited legislative process aligns with the pattern of swift action on reforms proposed by President Sheinbaum and her predecessor.
A key component of the reform involves a pilot program mandating companies to contribute to public health access for drivers earning at or above minimum wage. Additionally, the legislation ensures all drivers receive insurance coverage for on-the-job injuries. These provisions represent a significant step towards formalizing the labor relationship between app-based platforms and their workers, providing a safety net previously unavailable to many.
The Alianza in Mexico, a representative group for the app companies, has voiced concerns regarding potential tax implications of the proposal, highlighting the need for further clarification. However, the Mexican government maintains its commitment to leading the charge in enhancing the livelihoods of app-based workers. President Sheinbaum emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the reform in October, stating that similar legislation is rare globally.
This reform positions Mexico as a potential frontrunner in regulating the gig economy, addressing critical issues of worker protection and benefits in a rapidly evolving labor landscape. The swift legislative action underscores the government’s prioritization of this issue and its commitment to improving conditions for a growing segment of the workforce.
