Massachusetts has made history by recognizing the App Drivers Union as the first certified union for Uber and Lyft drivers in the United States. This milestone represents a significant step forward in labor rights for rideshare drivers across the nation.
Governor Maura Healey expressed the significance of this achievement, stating that the unionization of drivers will lead to improved wages for them and their families. The recognition comes after a rally held by Uber and Lyft drivers at the Massachusetts State House advocating for the formation of a ride-sharing union.
The App Drivers Union announced its certification on Monday, revealing it will represent nearly 70,000 drivers within the state, marking the largest group of private-sector workers to have their union recognized since 1941 when Ford workers joined United Auto Workers.
Autumn Weintraub, the union’s executive director, described the recognition as one of the most significant union organizing victories in the last century, sharing her thoughts with The Boston Globe.
“It’s one of the biggest organizing union victories in the last century,” said Autumn Weintraub.
A crucial factor in the union’s recognition was obtaining support from 32% of active rideshare drivers, surpassing the 25% threshold required for certification under Massachusetts state law. Other unions and dissenting drivers had until Friday afternoon to prompt an election with 25% backing from the driver group.
A celebration of the certification is planned with Governor Healey at the Massachusetts State House. She emphasized that better wages are essential for supporting families in Massachusetts.
The establishment of the App Drivers Union enables ridershare drivers to engage in collective bargaining, a move aimed at securing fair contracts with major companies like Uber and Lyft. So far, no collective bargaining agreements have been established between these drivers and rideshare companies.
The foundation of the union derives from a 2024 ballot measure approved by 54% of Massachusetts voters, granting rideshare drivers the right to unionize. Additionally, the state government is working towards implementing stricter regulations under a proposal from the Department of Public Utility, requiring more thorough background checks for drivers and offering riders enhanced verification methods for their rides.
The App Drivers Union is affiliated with the Service Employees International Union and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Leaders from both organizations were set to join a rally in Boston at 10 a.m. to mark this historic event.