The bill amends existing laws governing transportation network companies (TNCs) in Washington State, specifically RCW 46.72B.020 and RCW 49.46.300, to enhance driver rights and compensation. It introduces the term "product class," which refers to special ride options available to passengers for additional fees based on vehicle type and features. TNCs are required to provide drivers with information about vehicle eligibility for each product class and to reinstate vehicles that lost eligibility within the past year. Additionally, TNCs must notify drivers of any changes to vehicle requirements at least 120 days in advance. The legislation also establishes minimum compensation standards for drivers, ensuring fair pay based on passenger platform time and mileage, and mandates that tips be remitted directly to drivers without deductions unless explicitly consented to.

Furthermore, the bill requires TNCs to provide drivers with detailed trip activity records within three business days of a request and mandates electronic receipts for passengers within 24 hours of trip completion. Starting July 1, 2024, TNCs must collect and remit a $0.15 fee per trip to a driver resource center fund, with annual inflation adjustments. The bill also establishes a fair appeals process for drivers whose accounts are deactivated, allowing them to contest eligible deactivations through mediation and arbitration, while ensuring they are informed of their rights to representation. Various sections of the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026, for different provisions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.72B.020, 49.46.300
Substitute Bill: 46.72B.020, 49.46.300
Engrossed Substitute: 46.72B.020, 49.46.300
Bill as Passed Legislature: 46.72B.020, 49.46.300
Session Law: 46.72B.020, 49.46.300