Rideshare drivers in Illinois, backed by the Illinois Drivers Alliance—a coalition supported by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) and SEIU Local 1—have launched a campaign for new legislation that would give them the right to unionize and collectively bargain. The proposed law aims to establish legal protections for drivers working with app-based rideshare companies across the state.
During a press conference in Chicago, 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 at the event described issues such as reduced pay, sudden deactivations from platforms, and unsafe work environments. They argued that collective bargaining is necessary in an industry that has become essential to transportation throughout Illinois.
SEIU Local 1 President Genie Kastrup commented on the effort: “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.”
Following events in Chicago, supporters continued their advocacy in Springfield, where hundreds of rideshare drivers gathered at the State Capitol urging lawmakers to pass the bill.
IAM Union Midwest Territory Special Representative Ronnie Gonzalez said, “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.”
Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Yolanda Morris are sponsoring the proposed measure known as the Illinois Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act. Rep. Morris joined advocates in Springfield stating: “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, this legislation would allow rideshare drivers to unionize through an established process; set up sectoral bargaining; prohibit company-controlled unions; protect against retaliation or discrimination related to organizing; introduce representation fees; and ensure opportunities for driver participation within unions.
Before convening at the Capitol building in Springfield, many alliance members met directly with legislators during an organized lobby day advocating for better pay standards, workplace safety measures, job security provisions, and due process protections.
Lenny Sanchez—a driver involved with organizing efforts—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.”
Rideshare services play an important role connecting residents throughout Illinois while generating significant revenue within the transportation sector. However, many drivers continue to report declining earnings along with limited options when disputes arise with app-based employers.
