Rideshare drivers in Illinois, represented by the Illinois Drivers Alliance and supported by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) and SEIU Local 1, have announced new legislation that would allow them to unionize and bargain collectively. The proposal was unveiled at a press conference in Chicago, followed by further advocacy efforts in Springfield.
The legislation aims to establish clear rights for rideshare drivers to form unions, engage in collective bargaining, and seek improvements in pay and working conditions. IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli stated, “This legislation protects drivers and guarantees their right to have a voice. The IAM and SEIU have spent more than a decade winning real protections for rideshare drivers in this country. Thanks to the leadership of Senator Ram Villivalam and Representative Yolanda Morris, Illinois now has a real opportunity to help secure bargaining rights for rideshare drivers across the entire state.”
Drivers spoke at the Chicago event about declining earnings, unpredictable deactivations from platforms, and safety concerns. The press conference marked the start of a two-day campaign that continued at the state capital. SEIU Local 1 President Genie Kastrup said, “The Chicago press conference launched a two-day statewide push for rideshare driver rights. It’s Legislation that finally creates a real pathway for drivers to form a union and have a real voice.”
IAM Union Midwest Territory Special Representative Ronnie Gonzalez added, “This legislation is about fairness, dignity, and respect for the people who keep Illinois moving every single day. Rideshare drivers have been treated as disposable for far too long. This bill gives drivers a real voice and a real seat at the table.”
During lobbying efforts at the Capitol in Springfield, hundreds of rideshare drivers urged lawmakers to support what is known as the Illinois Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act. State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Yolanda Morris are sponsoring this measure.
Representative Morris emphasized the scale of workers affected: “More than 100,000 rideshare drivers in Illinois keep our state moving, yet they don’t have the basic right to organize,” she said. “The Illinois Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act would give them a voice on the job to form a union, bargain collectively, and fight for fair pay, safety, and respect.”
Key elements of the proposed law include setting up procedures for forming certified unions among drivers; allowing sector-wide bargaining with voluntary dues; protecting against retaliation or discrimination; preventing company-dominated labor organizations; creating representation fees; offering education opportunities; and ensuring that all interested parties can participate.
Lenny Sanchez, an organizing leader among Illinois’ rideshare workforce who took part in lobbying legislators directly at their offices before one of the major events in Springfield said: “Drivers are done being ignored… We’re organizing not just for ourselves but for every driver who deserves transparency, fair pay,and protection.The IAMand SEIUhave been working with usfor yearsand theyare definitelythe answerforusbecomingunion.”
Rideshare services play an essential role connecting residents throughout Illinois but many workers report low pay rates along with difficult work environments,and lack options when disputes arise with platform companies.
