Rideshare drivers in Illinois, along with lawmakers and union representatives, have introduced legislation that would allow rideshare drivers to form unions and engage in collective bargaining. The initiative is led by the Illinois Drivers Alliance, a coalition supported by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) and SEIU Local 1.
At a press conference in Chicago, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said, “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.”
The event marked the beginning of a two-day campaign for driver rights that continued in Springfield. SEIU Local 1 President Genie Kastrup stated, “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.”
Hundreds of members from the Illinois Drivers Alliance gathered at the State Capitol to advocate for swift passage of the proposed law. The bill’s sponsors are State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Yolanda Morris.
Representative Morris said, “More than 100,000 rideshare drivers in Illinois keep our state moving, yet they don’t have the basic right to organize. 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.”
If enacted, the legislation would establish procedures for forming unions among rideshare drivers. It includes sectoral bargaining options with voluntary dues; protection against discrimination or retaliation; prevention of company-controlled unions; representation fees; education opportunities; and guaranteed avenues for driver participation within their unions.
During their visit to Springfield, alliance members met with legislators seeking support for better pay standards, job security measures, safety improvements, and due process rights. Lenny Sanchez, an organizing leader among Illinois rideshare drivers 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 IAM and SEIU have been working with us for years and they are definitely the answer for us becoming union.”
Illinois’ rideshare workforce connects millions annually but continues to face challenges such as reduced earnings and unpredictable conditions without formal channels to address disputes with app-based companies.
