EU plan to boost gig economy workers is latest blow to apps

By KELVIN CHAN
AP Business Writer

LONDON (AP) — A new European Union plan to improve conditions for the growing number of gig economy workers could mean millions more of them are classified as employees entitled to benefits. It’s the latest setback for digital platforms that rely on independent contractors to deliver food and offer rides. The draft rules outlined Thursday aim to clarify the labor status of people employed by app-based companies like Uber and Deliveroo. Uber says it worries the EU proposal will threaten jobs and cripple small businesses, but the Just Eat Takeaway food delivery platform says it supports the rules and hopes they provide companies with “clarity and a level playing field.”