NYC Council Considers Act Requiring Amazon to Employ Couriers

The New York City Council is considering the Delivery Protection Act, a legislative proposal backed by Zohran Mamdani. The act would require Amazon and other delivery services operating city hubs to directly employ their couriers, effectively banning the use of subcontracted labor for these services.

Proponents of the bill, including Council member Tiffany Cabán, argue that Amazon is too integrated into the city's infrastructure to leave without compromising its delivery speeds. The proposal follows the model of the Safe Hotels Act of 2024, which previously targeted subcontracted labor within the hospitality sector.

Opponents warn the legislation could trigger a logistics exodus, potentially forcing Amazon to shutter major centers in Red Hook and Maspeth in favor of hubs outside city limits. Additionally, the bill could result in the closure of more than 40 small businesses currently operating as subcontractors. A city council vote is expected in the coming months.