On March 25, gig drivers united in the California Gig Workers Union joined community allies in rallies across the state to voice strong support for SB 1246, a new bill that would bring fairness, accountability, and safety to the growing presence of autonomous vehicles on California streets.

Drivers spend hours on the road and safety is paramount as we do our jobs. CGWU drivers in San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno, San Jose and San Francisco rallied in support of SB 1246, because drivers must follow the rules of the road and are held accountable if we don’t. The same must be true for autonomous vehicles sharing our streets!

When drivers stand together, we’re able to win – just like we were able to pass AB 1340 that gives gig drivers the right to have a union and bargain for better wages and working conditions with gig corporations like Uber and Lyft. 

From San Diego to the Bay, our unity is growing, and with it, our movement for a strong gig driver union! Don’t miss out, sign your union card!

SB 1246 would set clear, common-sense rules that would make the roads safer for all of us. The legislation would require:

• The people responsible for autonomous vehicles have to actually know how to drive in California.
• One person can’t watch more than three cars at once.
• When something goes wrong, a real person has to show up — within 10 minutes.
• Every robotaxi has to have a manual override that first responders can use.
• The companies must report what is actually happening — publicly.
• Cities and counties can fine AV companies directly.

SB 1246 is a vital step toward responsible technology and safety for everyone on California’s roads!