Drivers Unite for Largest Rideshare Union in the World
In a significant development, hundreds of thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers in California are aligning to establish what organizers claim will be the largest rideshare driver union globally.
The California Public Employment Relations Commission informed the California Gig Workers Union (CGWU) on August 7 that it had garnered support from at least 30% of active rideshare drivers, which is the threshold required by law to move forward with union representation.
After a waiting period of 30 days, the CGWU is set to be certified as the sole bargaining representative for rideshare drivers statewide. California hosts over 800,000 registered drivers, with around 350,000 actively working, based on labor estimates.
The union initiative arises from AB 1340, legislation that created a collective bargaining framework for app-based drivers, who are typically classified as independent contractors without conventional bargaining rights.
This move follows more than a decade of organizing efforts by the Drivers and Service Employees International Union, which backs the CGWU. Once the law took effect, drivers began gathering union recognition cards in more than a dozen languages through various outreach methods, including social media and in-person communications.
“Achieving this moment took over ten years, but gig drivers have shown incredible resilience with every step they’ve taken,” stated SEIU 721 President David Green.
Now, these drivers are eager to present their demands to the major rideshare companies, focusing on issues such as wages, benefits, termination of app access, and working conditions as crucial points for negotiation.
“I’m thrilled and proud that we finally managed to secure a union victory and are ready to negotiate with Uber and Lyft for essential things: better pay, comprehensive benefits, and improved working conditions,” expressed Fresno driver Vikarth Shankel.
Reports indicate that some rideshare workers in San Diego have voiced apprehensions regarding potential union fees and whether the union will deliver sufficient benefits to warrant those costs. The CGWU has assured drivers that they will not incur dues until a collective bargaining agreement is reached.
Margarita Penarosa, an Uber and Lyft driver from Los Angeles who played a key role in this movement, shared that drivers have spent years striving for more substantial representation in their work environment. “We have moved past the intimidation tactics used by gig companies to undermine our rights, uniting around our shared desire for fair pay and respectful treatment,” she noted.
The certification process is anticipated to take another 30 days, during which the CGWU will assume its role as the negotiating representative unless any competing organizations present objections.
As this new chapter unfolds, a Lyft spokesperson mentioned, “We are committed to collaborating with integrity. When our drivers prosper, Lyft prospers too, and we are focused on supporting our drivers while ensuring ridesharing remains affordable and reliable for all.”
Uber has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding this development.
