Uber drivers in Massachusetts just pulled off the biggest labor win since 1941 — just before the robots arrive
Uber and Lyft drivers in Massachusetts have successfully certified a union, marking a significant labor victory for gig-economy workers. This achievement may serve as a model for similar efforts in other states as drivers seek better pay and working conditions amid the rise of automation. The union could potentially represent nearly 70,000 drivers statewide, providing them with a collective bargaining framework while maintaining their status as independent contractors.
- ▪Massachusetts drivers are the first in the nation to certify a union for ride-hailing apps.
- ▪The union victory is described as the largest private-sector organizing win since 1941.
- ▪Drivers hope the union will lead to better pay and protections against sudden deactivations.
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Drivers for ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft in Massachusetts became the first in the nation Tuesday to certify a union, marking a milestone in the growing effort to organize gig-economy workers amid ongoing concerns over pay, expenses and working conditions.Recommended Video The victory could provide a model for similar campaigns gaining traction in states including California and Illinois, where labor organizers are increasingly targeting app-based industries as drivers also grapple with the rapid expansion of self-driving technology. As drivers waved signs and chanted with the gold dome of the Massachusetts State House providing a backdrop, labor leaders described the victory as the largest private-sector organizing win since Ford autoworkers unionized in 1941.
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