PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Husein Yatabarry, Executive Director of Muslim Community Network, on Delivery Worker Protections
0:57:23
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106 sec
Husein Yatabarry, Executive Director of Muslim Community Network, expresses strong support for Intro 1133 and Intro 1135, which aim to expand protections and ensure fair pay for all delivery workers in New York City. He emphasizes the importance of delivery workers to the city's functioning and argues for equal treatment across different types of delivery work.
- Highlights the current disparity in protections between food delivery workers and grocery delivery workers
- Emphasizes the challenges faced by delivery workers, including long hours, dangerous conditions, and limited access to safety resources
- Argues that passing these bills will create economic equity and safety across the gig economy
Husein Yatabarry
0:57:23
Good afternoon, chair Menon, and members of the Committee on Consumer Worker Protection, council member Nurse and council member Osei.
0:57:31
My name is Hussain Yateberry, and I'm the executive director of Muslim Community Network.
0:57:34
I'm here to express our strong support for intro 1133 and intro 1135.
0:57:40
Delivery workers are lifeblood of New York City.
0:57:42
Every day, they transport our meals, groceries, and essential goods.
0:57:45
Often in the rain, like today, snow or intense heat, they ensure that the city functions smoothly, and yet many of the workers are excluded from basic protections.
0:57:54
Unfortunately, a narrow scope of the current minimum pay rules mean that some delivery workers are being left behind.
0:58:00
It only covers food delivery workers on platforms serving restaurants while excluding grocery delivery workers.
0:58:05
At MCN, we've heard from constituents who use a variety of delivery platforms.
0:58:09
Many are frustrated by the disparity in the pay and protections for what is fundamentally the same work to them.
0:58:15
Whether delivering restaurant meals or groceries, these workers face the same challenges, long hours, dangerous conditions, and limited access to safety resources.
0:58:25
So passing these bills will create economic equity and safety across gig economy.
0:58:30
Intro 1133 guarantees workers basic protections, such as ability to set maximum distances and access trip information and right to restrooms, while 1135 ensures grocery delivery workers and food delivery workers are in an even plane for when it comes to pay.
0:58:46
Delivery workers, many of whom are immigrants or from underserved communities, deserve the same protections and opportunities no matter what platform they're working on.
0:58:54
Chair Menon, members of the committee, these bills address a fundamental issue of fairness.
0:58:58
By passing intro 1133 and 1135, you will ensure that no worker is left behind and that all New Yorkers can earn a dignified and living wage.
0:59:08
Thank you.
