California Grants Uber & Lyft Drivers the Right to Unionize

[bonk]

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a landmark bill Friday granting drivers for Uber and Lyft the right to unionize as independent contractors.

The deal was part of a broader compromise between lawmakers, unions, and ride-hailing companies.

More than 800,000 drivers will gain the right to collectively bargain for better pay and benefits.

Separate bills also lower insurance requirements for Uber and Lyft.

Uber’s California public policy head Ramona Prieto called the two bills “a compromise that lowers costs for riders while creating stronger voices for drivers.”
Newsom described the agreement as an “historic” California-only deal between workers and business.

[Nahid10]

This could reshape gig economy rules nationwide. Big win for drivers seeking fairer treatment.

[kelson10]

Union rights are long overdue in gig work. California’s move might set an important precedent.