SPRINGFIELD – To support rideshare drivers across the state, State Senator Mike Simmons joined State Senator Ram Villivalam and fellow legislators alongside hundreds of advocates on Wednesday at the Capitol to support rideshare driver unionization in Illinois.
“Folks across our state ensure people get to where they need to go everyday, and as such a vital part of our lives, they deserve the ability to negotiate for their own work environment,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This legislation will give the opportunity for drivers to fight for a better working environment and ensures that Illinois has their back.”
With a rising number of adults who work as taxi drivers or chauffeurs for their primary job over the last decade thanks to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, rideshare drivers have spoken out about their lack of rights, protections and transparency on pay.
To give rideshare drivers a voice for their concerns, Simmons, chief co-sponsor of Senate Bill 2906, is supporting legislation that would establish collective bargaining rights for drivers of rideshare, or transportation network, companies.
The bill would define unfair work practices, set procedures for prevention and resolution, alongside procedures for the designation of bargaining representatives, contract bargaining and impasse resolution.
“Rideshare drivers keep Illinois in motion, ensuring people can get home, employees can get to work and communities run smoothly,” said Simmons. “Illinois continues to lead the way in workers’ rights, and by giving rideshare drivers collective bargaining rights, we can ensure residents are empowered to fight for the benefits they deserve.”
Senate Bill 2906 awaits further action.
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