SPRINGFIELD ─ A new law championed by State Senator Ram Villivalam’s will allow rideshare drivers, such as those who drive for companies like Uber or Lyft, to unionize.
“Rideshare drivers are the back-bones of our communities, getting our neighbors to their job, school or doctors’ appointments,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “So many of our residents rely on rideshare drivers – meanwhile those driving are facing decreased wages, increased vehicle costs and unfair working conditions.”
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, the new law creates the Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act, providing rideshare drivers the ability to organize and have collective bargaining rights.
The law also defines 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.
“Governor Pritzker's signature marks a turning point not just for rideshare drivers, but for the future of work in Illinois. For too long, the companies behind this industry have dictated every aspect of drivers' livelihoods, while drivers have had no meaningful voice in the decisions that affect them. That changes today as more than 100,000 rideshare drivers now have the right to join the App Drivers Union and collectively bargain for better,” said Genie Kastrup, App Drivers Union Leader. “This law doesn't just give drivers a seat at the table – it shifts power to the workers who make this industry possible. It sends a clear message that no corporation is too big, no business model is beyond accountability, and no industry is beyond the reach of a union when working people stand together. Illinois rideshare drivers have changed what's possible, proving that when workers organize, they can transform an entire industry and inspire working people everywhere to demand the dignity and voice they deserve."
"Today belongs to the more than 100,000 rideshare drivers across Illinois who refused to accept a system that gave them all the risk and responsibility but none of the respect or voice on the job. By signing this bill into law, Governor Pritzker has given drivers the freedom to come together and have a voice in decisions about the pay, protections, and dignity they deserve. This victory was built by drivers who organized, spoke out, spoke with their legislators, and never gave up — we're proud to be a part of that. Now the real work begins as drivers build their union and negotiate a safer and stronger future for themselves and their families,” said Ronnie Gonzalez, App Drivers Union Leader.
“With over 100,000 rideshare drivers in Illinois, this new law will bolster their ability to secure better wages, benefits and working conditions and ensure they can continue to be a growing part of our workforce, economy and transportation network,” said Villivalam.
House Bill 5090 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.
