California has certified the California Gig Workers Union to bargain for Uber and Lyft rideshare drivers statewide. The union is now asking drivers what to bring to the table for a first contract, including earnings, benefits and deactivation procedures.
Who the state notice covers
On September 9, 2026, California’s Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) certified the union in case SA-PC-1-R under the state’s Transportation Network Company Drivers Labor Relations Act, enacted through AB 1340. The board had verified authorizations from at least 30% of active drivers. The resulting bargaining unit includes California Uber and Lyft passenger drivers, including those who never signed an authorization card.
For someone who switches between Uber rides and Uber Eats, the distinction is the work being done. The law covers passenger rides arranged through a covered company’s app. Food delivery falls outside this bargaining unit. PERB identifies Uber and Lyft as the covered companies in its third-quarter 2026 figures.
Participation is a personal choice
PERB’s October 9 notice explains that drivers may join a driver organization, work together on working conditions, or decline to participate in those activities. Receiving the notice does not enroll a driver as a union member. A driver who wants to check the wording can read the board’s public notice in English or Spanish without sharing any account information.
What comes before a change in pay
PERB says the union, Uber and Lyft must bargain in good faith over an initial contract. On October 23, the union published a survey asking drivers which issues matter to them and what they have experienced on the road. A driver might want clearer information about pay before accepting a ride, or a way to present evidence when contesting a deactivation.
The public updates available on November 5 describe representation and preparation for bargaining. Neither the board’s notice nor the union’s survey sets a new per-trip rate, a dues amount or a date for changes to appear in the Driver app. For a future pay announcement, the useful details to look for are the agreed rate, which trips it covers and when it takes effect.
Sources
California PERB’s certification record, covered companies and driver FAQ · PERB’s October 9 driver rights notice in English and Spanish (PDF) · The union’s October 23 bargaining survey announcement · Uber’s explanation of driver notices under AB 1340
In the Gig Directory: Uber · Lyft.
Join the discussion. What should California Uber and Lyft drivers ask for in the first contract? Share your priorities in the Rideshare forum.
Leave a Reply