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Instacart sues NYC over worker pay, tipping laws that would ‘degrade' business
New York Post· 2025-12-02 18:32
Core Viewpoint - Instacart is suing New York City to block the enforcement of five laws that would impact its grocery delivery operations, arguing that these regulations would increase delivery costs and harm consumers and grocers [1][3][7]. Summary by Relevant Sections Legal Challenge - The lawsuit targets specific laws, including Local Law 124, which mandates that grocery delivery workers receive the same minimum pay as restaurant delivery workers [5][6]. - Instacart claims that the US Constitution prohibits states and cities from discriminating against out-of-state commerce, which is a central argument in its legal challenge [2][10]. Impact of Laws - The laws are set to take effect on January 26, and Instacart argues that, without an injunction, they would lead to increased delivery costs, negatively affecting both consumers and grocery businesses [3][7]. - Instacart contends that the new regulations would force the company to restructure its platform, limit worker access, disrupt consumer and retailer relationships, and result in constitutional injuries without adequate legal remedies [8]. Company Position - Instacart emphasizes that its business model relies on flexibility and independence, which the new laws would undermine [8]. - The company has framed its lawsuit as a fight for fairness and affordable grocery access for New Yorkers, highlighting the importance of its platform for delivery workers [3][8]. Political Context - The minimum pay law was passed by the New York City Council despite opposition from Mayor Eric Adams, who did not sign the tipping law [9].