The Orange County (OC) Register editorial board stated in a July 28 opinion that the California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Proposition (Prop) 22, which classifies app-based transportation and delivery workers as independent contractors, is a "victory" for "worker freedom," consumers, and businesses.
"The victory of Prop. 22 in California is a win for worker freedom in a state that favors union interests above the interests of actual workers," said the editorial board. "It is a victory for consumers, who will continue to have transportation and delivery options. And it is a victory for businesses in a state that is typically hostile to businesses."
On July 25, the California Supreme Court issued a decision unanimously upholding Prop 22. According to the opinion, the Justices rejected assertions that the law is unconstitutional by interfering with the state legislature’s authority pertaining to worker compensation.
According to the OC Register editorial board, California voters "overwhelmingly" supported Prop 22 when it appeared on the 2020 ballot. The fact that nearly 59% of voters approved of the measure demonstrated the "great value" that "ordinary Californians" see in the gig economy. However, unions sought to interfere with "the will of the people" and filed a lawsuit over the law in 2021. After achieving an "early legal victory," an appellate court overturned that decision, and the matter went to the state supreme court.
The editorial board said Prop 22 benefits many Californians who are able to participate in gig work due to its flexibility and use it to supplement their income. This was especially true during the pandemic, described as "a time when many Californians benefited from delivery services and many others found an opportunity to earn a living during an uncertain period of history."
Approximately 5% of California’s total workforce engages in app-based work for companies such as Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash, Axios reported. The state’s gig workers contributed $38 billion to California’s economy in 2022.
The OC Register is part of the Southern California News Group (SCNG), according to its website. Its editorial board meets with community leaders and stakeholders in order to craft informed positions on issues impacting its readership.