Fight Over Gig Drivers' Rights in Mass. Remains Tight as Votes Count Up

An epic nail-biter of a ballot question with major implications for gig workers in Massachusetts is still too close to call as of Wednesday morning.

Question 1, which would create a new law classifying app-based delivery and ride-hail drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, is currently separated by less than 1 percentage point, with the "yes" side narrowly ahead.

As of Wednesday morning, with more than 95% of precincts reporting, the "yes" side was leading with 51.1% of the vote, while the "no" side had 48.9%. More than 2.3 million votes have been counted, and roughly 135,000 ballots remain to be counted, according to the Associated Press.

The outcome of the vote is being closely watched by both sides of the gig economy debate. If Question 1 passes, it would make Massachusetts the first state in the country to classify gig workers as independent contractors. This would have a major impact on the way that companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash operate in the state.

Supporters of Question 1 argue that it would give gig workers more flexibility and control over their work. They also say that it would help to create a more level playing field for small businesses that compete with gig economy companies.

Opponents of Question 1 argue that it would剝奪gig workers of important benefits and protections, such as minimum wage, overtime pay, and health insurance. They also say that it would make it harder for gig workers to unionize and bargain collectively.

The outcome of the vote is likely to have a ripple effect across the country. Several other states are considering similar ballot measures, and the Massachusetts vote could provide a roadmap for future efforts.