Washington Lyft, Uber Driver Deal Not Safe from Court Challenge

A new Washington law touted as a grand bargain among Lyft Inc., Uber Technologies Inc., their drivers, and a union local could nevertheless be ripe for a legal challenge if the experience of past gig worker measures is any indication.

The law, which Gov. Jay Inslee (D) signed March 31, would ensure Lyft and Uber can keep classifying their Washington drivers as independent contractors but requires the companies to provide benefits, including minimum per-trip pay and paid sick time.

The deal is the latest development in a wide-reaching battle over the employment status of ride-hail drivers and ...