Purpose of the Bill

The proposed legislation aims to establish and regulate collective bargaining rights for drivers of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft in Minnesota. It seeks to provide these drivers with representation and negotiation rights regarding their work conditions, compensation, and dispute resolutions.

Main Provisions

• Collective Bargaining Rights: TNC drivers are granted the right to organize, join labor organizations, and select an exclusive representative for bargaining.
• Certification of Labor Organizations: Labor organizations can petition to be certified as bargaining or exclusive representatives of drivers if they show sufficient support among drivers.
• Obligations of TNCs: TNCs must negotiate in good faith with certified labor organizations and provide necessary data about drivers to the commissioner.
• Unfair Labor Practices: The bill defines specific unfair labor practices for both TNCs and labor organizations, including spying on drivers and coercing drivers away from union activity.
• Mediation and Arbitration: The bill sets up a procedure for handling disputes, including mediation and arbitration if negotiations reach an impasse.
• Enforcement: The Bureau of Mediation Services will oversee the enforcement of the law and handle complaints regarding unfair labor practices.
• Judicial Review: The bill outlines processes for judicial review of final orders and determinations, with some decisions being final and not subject to review.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill introduces a new statutory chapter specifically focused on the rights of TNC drivers to organize and collectively bargain, creating a structured process for labor relations in this industry.
• It establishes new roles for the Bureau of Mediation Services and the Department of Labor and Industry in enforcing collective bargaining rights for TNC drivers.

Relevant Terms

• Collective Bargaining
• Transportation Network Companies (TNCs)
• Labor Organization
• Exclusive Representative
• Unfair Labor Practices
• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Judicial Review