Uber And Lyft Propose A Minimum Wage For Drivers

Uber and Lyft have proposed paying their drivers a new minimum wage of $21 per hour as an alternative to elevating them from independent contractors to employees. 

The proposal, which would also extend some benefits to the workers, comes after days of protests on the streets of San Francisco and Sacramento by drivers. 

The drivers have called for passage of Assembly Bill 5 in the state legislature, which would reclassify them as employees of the ride-hail companies. 

Related: 'Wheelchair Tax' Could Raise Prices For Uber And Lyft Riders

"There is no way just to have ends meet. I can't afford a health care insurance for me and my son," said Lyft driver Edan Alva to KPIX-5. He said he makes between $20 and $25 per hour with tips. 

Lyft officials have urged drivers to lobby state lawmakers to vote against the bill, warning that there would be layoffs if the bill is enacted.