Seattle lets Uber drivers join union in US first

Seattle has passed a measure allowing drivers of smartphone-based taxi companies like Uber and Lyft to unionize over pay and other working conditions, the first move of its kind in the United States. Mayor Ed Murray was quick to say he would not sign the measure, which can become law without his support. The firms have fought such measures, arguing they offer more flexibility and pay than traditional companies to their drivers, who they consider independent contractors.