On October 17, New York State Senator Julia Yang held a press conference in front of the 62nd precinct in Brooklyn, announcing a new proposal aimed at enhancing the safety protections for delivery workers. This proposal seeks to classify assaults on delivery personnel as Class E felonies, with potential penalties of up to four years in prison.

During the press conference, Yang noted that demand for delivery services in New York City has surged since 2010, reaching new heights during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, there has also been an alarming increase in incidents of violence against these workers. According to data from the Journal of Urban Health, New York City is home to approximately 61,000 delivery workers, with 66.9% of them considering this their primary job. Disturbingly, around 20% have reported experiencing an attack.

The impetus for this proposal stems from the tragic shooting of delivery worker Qian Zhiwen in Queens last June, as well as several robbery incidents targeting delivery personnel in Bensonhurst earlier this year. Yang emphasized the urgency of passing this legislation to protect these workers: “Delivery workers are essential to New York’s economy. They work tirelessly and should not have to live in fear.” She explained that many delivery workers operate in dangerous areas late at night, making them particularly vulnerable to attacks. The proposal is expected to be introduced in the state senate in January.

Li Zhibo, president of the Bay Parkway Chinese Chamber of Commerce and a restaurant owner with many chamber members also working as delivery workers, shared his concerns. He pointed out that many Chinese delivery workers are simply trying to make a living, yet they face the constant risk of attacks. Recently, an incident on Brooklyn’s 86th Street involved a delivery worker being beaten and robbed, but the police classified it as a dispute rather than a crime against a worker. Li expressed gratitude for Yang’s efforts, hoping that the proposed legislation would help protect the community and put an end to the violence against delivery workers.

The proposal has garnered support from delivery platforms. Joshua Bocian, head of Grubhub’s New York office, underscored that safety is their top priority. “Delivery workers often brave harsh weather to serve customers, and this legislation represents a significant step toward ensuring their safety,” he noted. Similarly, Kassandra Perez-Desir, director of government affairs for DoorDash in New York, expressed support for holding individuals accountable for serious crimes against delivery workers, stating that the platform has been closely collaborating with law enforcement to ensure a safe working environment for them.