In a profession where immigrants often work, they raised the minimum wage: what you need to know

Coming to New York, many immigrants go to work in delivery - it's easy to get a job, English is not particularly needed. And we have good news for such people - in New York they raised the minimum wage for couriers working through applications for delivering food from restaurants, writes NYC Food Policy Center.

Beginning July 12, 2023, delivery workers using the apps will earn a minimum of $17,96 per hour, excluding tips.

Wages will increase to $2025 an hour by 19,86 and will be adjusted annually for inflation.

Delivery companies will be able to determine the payment methods themselves: by hours, by the number of orders, by the duration of trips, or by some other formula. But in the end, the delivery man should be earning less than $19,86 per hour, no matter which way the company chooses.

For apps that compensate workers for waiting times and travel time, the minimum pay rate in 2023 will be approximately $0,30 per minute. Apps that only pay workers after they have accepted a delivery will pay $0,50 per minute.

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Why is it important

A study by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) found that app couriers currently earn an average hourly rate of $7 an hour, and after deducting the costs of maintaining a car and topping up their phone, they receive averaging $4 an hour before tips or $11 including tips.

"The new minimum wage ensures that workers and their families enjoy greater economic stability and keep our city's legendary restaurant industry thriving," New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement.

The City also cooperates with Los Deliveristas Unidosto turn unused newsstands into e-bike and moped charging stations for delivery workers.