Governor Maura Healey called the recognition of a rideshare drivers’ union a historic event for both Massachusetts and the entire country. She highlighted the impact of unionization on drivers, emphasizing improvements in pay and benefits for drivers and their families. This landmark decision affects Uber and Lyft drivers rallying for union formation at the Massachusetts State House.
The App Drivers Union has been officially recognized by Massachusetts, making it the first certified union for Uber and Lyft drivers in the United States. The union claims representation of nearly 70,000 drivers within the state. This achievement marks the largest group of private-sector workers to achieve union recognition since the Ford workers joined the United Auto Workers in 1941.
“It’s one of the biggest organizing union victories in the last century,” said Autumn Weintraub, the executive director of the union, to The Boston Globe.
Massachusetts’ Department of Labor Relations reported that 32% of active rideshare drivers supported the union, surpassing the 25% threshold needed for certification. Other unions or drivers opposing union representation had until Friday to initiate an election with at least 25% backing.
A celebration of this union certification, featuring Governor Healey, is scheduled at the state house. Healey reiterated the significant role of unionization in securing better wages that support families across Massachusetts.
As a certified union, the App Drivers Union can now engage in collective bargaining for the state’s rideshare drivers. Prior to this development, no collective bargaining agreement had been established between rideshare drivers and companies such as Uber and Lyft.
In 2024, 54% of Massachusetts voters approved a ballot measure granting rideshare drivers the right to unionize. The state government is also pursuing stricter regulations on drivers, as proposed by the Department of Public Utilities, which could involve more rigorous background checks and additional verification methods for riders.
The App Drivers Union is associated with the Service Employees International Union and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Leaders from both organizations planned to attend a rally in Boston, set for 10 a.m.