SEIU-backed group takes big step in unionizing Uber, Lyft drivers

https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/technology/uber-lyft-unionization-effort-takes-big-step-forward/article_ea23481c-dd34-4b0c-a9d7-7b1bf47b06bf.html

By Troy Wolverton | Examiner staff writer Jun 26, 2026

An organization of California Uber and Lyft drivers has reached a major milestone in its effort to form a union, but it could face a rival organizing effort when it seeks official approval.

After showing that it has the support of 10% of California’s “active” drivers, the California Gig Workers Union has received from the state agency overseeing the unionization process a list containing the names and contact information of all such drivers in the state. The union is now using that list to contact those drivers to convince them to sign on to its effort, said Hector Castellanos, one of its organizers.

Under a new state law, the Gig Workers Union — which is backed by the state branch of Service Employees International Union and three of its local chapters — would need to have the support of at least 30% of active drivers in order to form an officially recognized union that could collectively bargain with the ride-hailing companies.

Union members were “so excited, so happy,” to get confirmation that they’d reached the 10% mark and to get the list of active drivers, Castellanos said.

FULL story at link above.


Hector Castellanos of California Gig Workers SEIU speaking at a rally against Waymo at San Francisco City Hall on Monday, March 2, 2026.

Craig Lee/The Examiner