Ride-Share Drivers in Massachusetts Formally Unionize
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- The App Drivers Union has become the first officially recognized union in the U.S. to represent ride-share drivers, now representing nearly 70,000 drivers in Massachusetts.
- This certification allows the union to begin collective bargaining with Uber and Lyft on key issues such as pay, driver safety, and deactivation policies.
- Massachusetts voters approved the right for ride-share drivers to unionize in November 2024 with 54% support, enabling collective bargaining but not automatically granting union representation.
- Governor Maura Healey called the union certification a historic moment, emphasizing the importance of giving ride-share drivers a voice in their wages and working conditions.
- Uber stated it will collaborate with the union, drivers, and the state to maintain driver flexibility and benefits while ensuring safety, transparency, and accountability.