In Massachusetts, Question 3 on this year's ballot is a hot topic for all mobile delivery and rideshare drivers.
The proposed law would provide what is being called Transportation Network Drivers - the right to form unions with companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash. If passed, this law will let drivers bargain for wages, benefits, and terms of conditions of work, according to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, William Francis Galvin.
“A YES vote will give Massachusetts ride-share drivers, who work for companies like Uber and Lyft, the option to join a union while also maintaining driver flexibility and independence. The option to join a union is guaranteed for most workers, but ride-share drivers currently don’t have that choice,” the ballot question says.
“This question gives an opportunity for those who cannot gain a stereotypical type of employment. If the drivers are able to create unions and get better benefits from the company that they work for, that would be a great thing for those who do that as a fulltime job,” said Ryan DeWitt, a former DoorDash delivery driver.
A “no” vote will allow all transportation drivers pay their dues to unions, and they would not be considered an independent contractor any longer.
Opponents of the proposal say drivers will lose out.
“I think everybody should have a voice, it’s easy to be overlooked as an employee when you can make your own hours or don’t have an office space,” says Justin Saslaw, a former DoorDash driver.
“Question 3 does not create bargaining for workers. Drivers will have no control over leadership of the union and will pay significant dues without real representation,” according to the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.
Comments