Why I’m Voting Against Prop 22: An Uber Engineer’s Perspective
As a software engineer at Uber and a former gig worker myself, I’ve seen both sides of the ride-hailing industry—and it’s clear that Proposition 22 is not the solution workers deserve. Here’s why I’m voting no.
The Convenience of Uber Comes at a Cost
For two years, I’ve worked on Uber’s Android app, but my experience extends beyond coding. I’ve also driven for Lyft and made deliveries for app-based companies. This dual perspective reveals a harsh truth: Uber’s convenience is built on the backs of underpaid drivers.
- Instant gratification for riders means drivers spend unpaid hours waiting for fares.
- Workers subsidize the platform with their free labor, enabling low prices and quick service.
Prop 22: A Corporate Power Grab
Uber and other gig companies have poured $47.5 million into passing Prop 22, claiming it benefits drivers. But as an insider, I know better.
- Misclassification of workers: Uber labels drivers as independent contractors to avoid providing benefits like healthcare, paid leave, and retirement plans—perks I receive as an employee.
- Disregard for labor laws: Since January 2020, California law has required gig workers to be classified as employees. Prop 22 is Uber’s attempt to rewrite the rules in its favor.
The Human Cost of Uber’s Business Model
During the pandemic, Uber laid off 3,500 employees via a three-minute Zoom call—a stark reminder of how little the company values its workforce. Drivers face similar instability:
- 71% of San Francisco gig drivers work full-time (30+ hours/week), yet are denied legally mandated benefits (source).
- Many drivers sleep in their cars or skip life-saving medications to make ends meet (Guardian report).
A Call to Action for Tech Workers and Voters
To my colleagues and the public:
- Research ballot measures independently. Corporate interests rarely align with workers’ rights.
- Listen to drivers’ stories. Many are struggling to survive in high-cost cities like San Francisco.
- Vote no on Prop 22. This isn’t about innovation—it’s about denying basic protections to gig workers.
The Bottom Line
Prop 22 is a multimillion-dollar campaign to exploit workers. As tech professionals, we must stand with drivers—not executives. This November, vote no on Prop 22.
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