Massachusetts Recognizes Nation’s First Rideshare Driver Union

The recognition of a rideshare driver union marks a significant milestone. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey called it a historic day for the state, for the country. Her statement emphasized that the unionization of drivers will lead to better pay, better wages for them, for their families.

Recently, Uber and Lyft drivers gathered at the Massachusetts State House to advocate for the creation of a rideshare union in 2023. The App Drivers Union announced that Massachusetts now recognizes them, making it the first certified Uber and Lyft driver union in the United States. This union will represent nearly 70,000 drivers, the largest group of private-sector workers to have a union recognized since 1941, when Ford workers joined the United Auto Workers.

The union’s executive director, Autumn Weintraub, described it as one of the biggest organizing union victories in the last century. Massachusetts’ Department of Labor Relations discovered that 32% of active rideshare drivers supported the App Drivers Union, exceeding the 25% threshold required for certification per state law. Other unions had until Friday to initiate an election with at least 25% support from the group, including drivers who oppose union representation.

Governor Healey expressed her pride and support for the certification at a celebration planned at the state house. She reiterated the positive impact of unionization, stating, We want people in Massachusetts to have the kind of wages that can support their families. She highlighted the importance of recognizing drivers’ right to unionize for improved wages and living conditions.

The App Drivers Union will now engage in collective bargaining with rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to negotiate a contract. To date, no collective bargaining agreement has been reached between the drivers and these corporations.

Massachusetts voters approved the unionization rights for rideshare drivers in 2024, with 54% voting in favor of the ballot measure. Additionally, the state government is working on increasing regulation on drivers through a proposal from the Department of Public Utility, which aims to enforce stricter background checks and provide riders with more options for verifying their ride.

The App Drivers Union is aligned with the Service Employees International Union and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Leaders from both organizations were scheduled to attend a rally at 10 a.m. in Boston.