Unions and gig-economy firms in US gear up for benefits battle

New York

FACED with a barrage of lawsuits from workers demanding benefits and recognition as employees, some companies in the fast-growing "gig economy" are looking to settle the issues through legislation.

Joseph Morelle, the No 2 Democrat in the New York State Assembly, said he has been talking about portable benefits with such companies, which use occasional workers to provide rides, deliveries, house-cleaning and other services through websites and apps.