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Illinois rideshare drivers will soon have the ability to unionize and collectively bargain under a new law signed by Gov. JB Pritzker, a measure supporters say will give more than 100,000 Uber and Lyft drivers a greater voice in pay, benefits and working conditions.

The legislation, House Bill 5090, creates the Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act, establishing a framework for drivers working through app-based transportation companies to organize, select bargaining representatives and negotiate industrywide agreements with rideshare companies.

State Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago), the bill’s chief Senate sponsor, said rideshare drivers have increasingly faced lower wages, rising vehicle costs and a lack of workplace protections despite playing a critical role in transportation across Illinois.

“Rideshare drivers are the back-bones of our communities, getting our neighbors to their job, school or doctors’ appointments,” Villivalam said in a statement. “So many of our residents rely on rideshare drivers – meanwhile those driving are facing decreased wages, increased vehicle costs and unfair working conditions.”

Supporters of the legislation say the growth of companies such as Uber and Lyft has transformed the transportation industry while leaving many drivers with limited recourse to challenge pay policies, deactivations or other workplace issues.

Under the new law, drivers will have the right to form and join driver organizations and bargain collectively through representatives of their choosing. The legislation also establishes procedures for union recognition, elections, contract negotiations and dispute resolution. It further outlines what constitutes unfair labor practices by both rideshare companies and driver organizations.

The measure creates a statewide bargaining unit for transportation network drivers and allows an exclusive bargaining representative to negotiate with covered rideshare companies on issues including compensation, benefits, paid leave, deactivation appeals, earnings transparency and workplace safety requirements. Any negotiated agreement would require approval from the Illinois Department of Labor before taking effect.

The law also establishes a Rideshare Workers Support Fund, financed through a per-trip fee paid by covered transportation network companies. Revenue from the fund will help cover administrative costs and support education and representation efforts for drivers.

Labor advocates hailed the signing as a landmark moment for gig economy workers.

“Governor Pritzker’s signature marks a turning point not just for rideshare drivers, but for the future of work in Illinois,” said Genie Kastrup, an App Drivers Union leader. “This law doesn’t just give drivers a seat at the table – it shifts power to the workers who make this industry possible.”

App Drivers Union leader Ronnie Gonzalez said the law gives drivers the opportunity to advocate for better compensation and working conditions through collective action.

“By signing this bill into law, Governor Pritzker has given drivers the freedom to come together and have a voice in decisions about the pay, protections, and dignity they deserve,” Gonzalez said.

According to Villivalam, more than 100,000 people drive for rideshare companies in Illinois. He said the new law will help drivers secure better wages, benefits and workplace protections while supporting the continued growth of the state’s transportation network.

The Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act took effect immediately upon becoming law.

A good test of solidarity for minority workers by these unions, even if the labour movement should divest from the Labour Party entirely atp

Yesterday on a walk I approached a spot where two trails intersect. The crows overhead in tall trees were going crazy screaming and cawing. Thinking it's a hawk or bald eagle, their usual nemesis, I looked up to see what's the matter. There were no raptors in view.

As I scanned for eagles, jogging towards me was a young man with a large GSD. As he approached I said a cheery "Hi puppy!". The dog wagged and the man smiled and both jogged on.

Crows went silent.

It's possible they thought I, the crazy crow lady, was in jeopardy. Or maybe there was a raptor I missed.

I threw a few snacks on the trail and walked on.