Lyft, DoorDash Driver Pay Changes Fuel Gig Worker Wage Debate

Changes to how Lyft Inc. and DoorDash Inc. pay workers are stoking the ongoing state and federal policy debate surrounding the independent contractor model that’s served as the cornerstone of the gig economy for more than a decade.

Lyft announced Feb. 6 it would guarantee drivers receive at least 70% of fares paid by customers each week after external fees and provide an earnings summary detailing fee deductions, among other changes. DoorDash in July gave its drivers the choice to be paid by the hour instead of per delivery.

The changes in earnings policies by two top gig economy players ...