Amazon labor disputes and worker assistance reliance

Amazon is facing scrutiny regarding its workforce and logistics operations. In early September 2026, Teamsters members conducted a one-day strike at the DJT6 warehouse in Riverside, California, to protest unfair labor practices and demand safer working conditions. Amazon denied any operational disruption, stating the union does not represent the facility's workers.

Parallel to labor disputes, reports from the Government Accountability Office indicate a significant trend of Amazon employees relying on public assistance. Between 2020 and 2025, the number of workers receiving Medicaid or SNAP benefits nearly tripled, even as Amazon’s annual profits rose from approximately $11.6 billion to $77.7 billion. This trend follows the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which expanded tax cuts while reducing funding for Medicaid and SNAP.

As these labor and assistance issues persist, Amazon is moving forward with ‘Project Mercury,’ an initiative to expand its logistics network. The company aims to add over 1,000 new same-day fulfillment centers over the next five years, seeking to place a facility within 10 miles of 80% of Prime customers by 2031.