Uber and Lyft drivers in Massachusetts certify the nation's first ride-hailing union

Drivers for ride-hailing apps in Massachusetts certified a union, becoming the first in the nation to do so. The union certification was enabled by a 2024 ballot measure that created a framework for ride-hailing drivers to unionize and bargain collectively while staying independent contractors. Organizers said the union could represent nearly 70,000 drivers statewide. Drivers reported concerns about pay, rising expenses such as gas and maintenance, and sudden loss of app access with limited recourse. A driver described hopes for better pay, stronger protections against deactivations, and more stability while maintaining scheduling flexibility. The outcome was framed as a major private-sector organizing win and a potential model for other states.

"Drivers for ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft in Massachusetts became the first in the nation Tuesday to certify a union, marking a milestone in the growing effort to organize gig-economy workers amid ongoing concerns over pay, expenses, and working conditions."

"The certification became possible after the state's voters approved a 2024 ballot measure creating a first-in-the-nation framework allowing ride-hailing drivers to unionize and bargain collectively while remaining independent contractors. Organizers say the union could ultimately represent nearly 70,000 drivers statewide."

"Jean Fredo, who has driven for Uber for more than seven years, said he hopes the union will bring better pay, stronger protections against sudden deactivations, and more stability for drivers. "With the union, it will not feel like we're working for nothing," he said in French through a translator. "Now the money will not only stay in the billionaire's pockets. The money will actually come to the workers who work very hard.""

"Fredo said when he started driving for Uber, he appreciated the flexibility and the ability to make his own schedule while still being present for his family. But over time, he said, he found himself working longer hours while earning less as gas and maintenance costs climbed. Drivers can also lose access to the apps with little warning or recourse, he"

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