Amazon Teamsters Push Chicago to Ban Delivery Subcontracting

Introduced by Alderwoman Julia Ramirez, the bill would require all last-mile delivery facilities operating within city limits to obtain municipal licenses. Central to the proposal is a ban on the "Delivery Service Partner" program, which Amazon currently utilizes to manage its logistics network. Supporters contend this structure intentionally suppresses unionization efforts and obscures accountability for accidents occurring on city streets.

Randy Korgan, director of the Teamsters Amazon Division, stated that the push for accountability is a nationwide effort, with Chicago workers now leading the charge. The legislation mirrors similar reform efforts in New York City, which recently secured broad support from local officials. Melanie Perez, an Amazon employee based at the DIL7 facility in Skokie, noted that the success of the New York campaign provided the blueprint for the current Chicago drive. Alderwoman Ramirez emphasized that while delivery convenience has changed consumer habits, municipal regulations must evolve to prioritize worker safety and neighborhood standards over corporate expediency.