App-based Trade Association Announces Opposition to Nomination of Julie Su to be Labor Secretary

Washington, D.C. – Kristin Sharp, CEO of Flex, the trade association representing America's leading app-based rideshare and delivery platforms and the people who count on them, released the following announcing Flex’s opposition to the nomination of Julie Su to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor:

“After careful review, Flex will oppose the nomination of Julie Su to lead the Department of Labor. Specifically, the app-based industry is troubled by her track record in regards to AB5 in California, the policies she has championed as Deputy Secretary, and the Department’s failure to communicate a vision for a future-forward, modern economy. The next Secretary of Labor must recognize – and help support – the independent work that benefits millions of earners, consumers, and communities every day. We urge all Senators to oppose this nomination.”

Additional Background:

Until today, Flex has not opposed Ms. Su’s nomination. Over the past three months, Flex has remained open to her nomination and sought to secure a better understanding of how Ms. Su would approach issues of importance to all those involved in the app-based economy. For instance:

• When President Biden formally nominated Ms. Su in February, Flex issued a statement noting her problematic record in California, but stopped short of opposing her nomination. Instead, Flex simply requested a review of her record and position as part of her confirmation process;
  

• Flex sent a letter to the Administration in March urging Ms. Su to clarify her stances on issues impacting the app-based economy during her confirmation hearing;
  

• Flex hoped that Ms. Su would use her Committee hearing in April to articulate a plan that empowers small business owners and entrepreneurs, a plan that supports workers in deciding where, when, how often—and with which platforms –– to earn income. Unfortunately, Ms. Su did not do so.
  

• More than 23 million Americans are current or recent earners on app-based platforms. A national policy narrowing opportunities for independent work across the economy could displace 1.5 million workers, costing an estimated $31.4 billion in earnings.
  

• Recent polling found that 77% of app-based earners support maintaining their current classification as independent contractors.