LOS ANGELES: Californians are being asked decide if Uber, Lyft and other app-based drivers should remain independent contractors or be eligible for the benefits that come with being company employees.
The battle between the powerhouses of the so-called gig economy and labor unions including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters could become the most expensive ballot measure in state history. Voters are weighing whether to create an exemption to a new state law aimed at providing wage and benefit protections to drivers.
Uber and Lyft have fought a losing battle in the Legislature and courts, so now with help from app-based food delivery companies DoorDash, Postmates and Instacart they are spending more than $180 million to take their fight directly to voters in the Nov. 3 election.
Early voting in California starts Monday. Uber and Lyft, both headquartered in San Francisco, have…