SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam joined hundreds of advocates Wednesday at the Capitol to show support for rideshare driver unionization in Illinois.
“Unions are the backbone of our workforce, ensuring laborers are supported and afforded strong workers’ rights, environments and benefits. Rideshare drivers are an important part of our transportation infrastructure – yet they currently lack the ability to negotiate for a proper working environment, rights or benefits,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “This is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ensure Illinois continues to be a leader in labor rights and pave the way to support a growing part of our workforce, economy and transportation network.”
The number of adults who work as taxi drivers or chauffeurs for their primary job has tripled over the last decade thanks to app-based rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Since the increase in popularity of these apps for both consumers and laborers, rideshare drivers have increasingly spoken out about their lack of rights, protections and little to no transparency about pay.
To ensure rideshare drivers are able to voice their concerns and fight for fair working conditions, Villivalam is leading the charge with Senate Bill 2906 – a measure that would establish collective bargaining rights for drivers of rideshare, or transportation network, companies.
The measure would also define unfair work practices, set procedures for both their prevention and resolution, as well as set procedures for the designation of bargaining representatives, contract bargaining and impasse resolution.
“Rideshare drivers are the people who keep Illinois moving – getting families to jobs, hospitals, schools and airports every single day,” said Villivalam. “By establishing collective bargaining rights for rideshare drivers, Illinois would continue to be a leader in supporting workers’ rights and ensuring our neighbors have the tools they need to fight for the working conditions they deserve.”
Senate Bill 2906 currently awaits to be heard.
