Bill > H1339

This bill establishes comprehensive protections and regulatory frameworks for delivery network company (DNC) workers, consumers, and communities in Massachusetts. The legislation creates new legal definitions and requirements for application-based delivery workers, mandating that they be presumed employees with specific wage and working condition protections. Key provisions include establishing a minimum hourly wage equal to the basic minimum wage, requiring detailed payroll reporting, mandating mileage reimbursement, and providing accidental liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence. The bill also creates robust anti-retaliation protections, allowing workers to file civil actions if they experience discrimination or wrongful deactivation. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new division within the Department of Public Utilities to oversee delivery network companies, with expanded jurisdiction to ensure worker safety, service quality, and consumer protection. The bill includes provisions for data reporting, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, and critically, enables delivery workers to organize and collectively bargain. A unique feature is a 10-cent surcharge on each delivery to fund the administrative oversight of these new worker protections. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, providing companies time to adapt to the new regulatory environment.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1339