New York City labor bill threatens Amazon and UPS jobs

A coalition of business groups, including the Taxpayers Protection Alliance and the American Consumer Institute, has urged the New York City Council to block the proposed Delivery Protection Act. The groups argue the labor bill would impose substantial costs on major companies like Amazon and UPS, ultimately impacting consumers.

Sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and supported by progressive leaders, the legislation aims to streamline safety training and operations for delivery firms. However, it would prohibit the use of third-party contractors or gig workers for fulfillment processes. Non-compliant companies would face a $500,000 financial penalty per non-employee worker.

Opponents claim the bill creates a powerful incentive for businesses to abandon independent contracting entirely. Amazon has reportedly threatened to close more than a dozen warehouses and relocate thousands of workers away from New York City if the legislation is passed.