California Uber, Lyft Drivers Move Closer To Unionizing

Uber and Lyft drivers in California are closer to gaining union representation after state regulators determined a newly formed union secured enough support to move toward certification , The LA Times reports. The California Public Employment Relations Board notified the California Gig Workers Union that it had secured support from at least 30% of active rideshare drivers statewide. The union is expected to be certified after a 30-day waiting period if no other qualifying organization emerges. The milestone follows more than a decade of organizing by rideshare drivers seeking greater influence over pay, benefits, and working conditions. “We worked tirelessly to win this union, spending thousands of hours, calling, texting, and meeting our fellow drivers all across the state,” Fresno-based rideshare driver Vikaas Shanker said in a statement. “For too long, we have been without what we need to work and survive. Establishing our union is the first step toward change.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEIU Local 521 (@seiu521) The California Gig Workers Union was formed with support from the Service Employees International Union. Assembly Bill 1340, passed last year, established a framework that allows rideshare drivers to unionize and collectively bargain while retaining their status as independent contractors. Uber initially opposed AB 1340 but dropped its opposition following the passage of separate legislation that changed insurance require…