In a significant move for gig economy workers, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that grants Uber and Lyft drivers the right to unionize. This legislation, signed on Friday, empowers drivers classified as independent contractors to organize and negotiate collectively for better working conditions and pay.
The bill aims to address long-standing concerns regarding the treatment of ride-hailing drivers, who have often faced challenges related to job security and benefits. By allowing these drivers to unionize, the state hopes to enhance their bargaining power and improve their overall working conditions.
This development is part of a broader trend in California and across the United States, where gig workers are increasingly advocating for their rights. The new law could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially reshaping the landscape of labor rights in the gig economy.