Rideshare Driver Rally outside City Hall: What They’re Demanding

Chicago Rideshare Drivers Demand Action on Proposed Ordinance

CHICAGO (WGN) — A caravan of more than two dozen rideshare drivers rallied outside Chicago City Hall on Wednesday morning, demanding action on a proposed ordinance that would increase driver pay and require passenger verification.

The Fair Share Ordinance: A Proposal for Change

The Fair Share Ordinance, also known as the Rideshare Living Wage and Safety Ordinance, is currently in committee but rideshare drivers hope it will soon be put to a vote. Ald. Mike Rodriguez (22nd Ward) is a sponsor.

Key Provisions of the Ordinance

• Raise driver pay from $.60/mile and $.20/minute to $1.85/mile and $.65/minute for any regular Uber, Lyft, or Via ride, with the rate increasing annually with the Consumer Pricing Index;
• Establish a $7 trip minimum to ensure each ride is worth a driver’s time;
• Automatically pay a clear and transparent 150% surge on all regular rides leaving the city;
• Establish a cap of 20% on what the companies can take from each fare. Drivers currently report the companies often take cuts of 60% or more;
• Require that companies provide transparency in fares to both passengers and drivers;
• Require 7 days’ notice to drivers of any suspension and a system of appeal;
• Require passenger verification to improve driver safety.

Supporters of the Ordinance

Supporters of the ordinance say Uber and Lyft have created a “rigged” system that maximizes profits but endangers the safety of drivers. Effort to pass the ordinance was renewed following a string of armed robberies and carjackings.

Uber’s Optional Verification Program

Uber began testing a verification program in Chicago and 11 other cities last year. Uber’s program, like Lyft’s, is currently optional.

Why the Ordinance is Needed

“This ordinance would make (verification) mandatory. So nobody would be able to opt out or choose not to do it. And frankly, that’s what we need to keep drivers safe,” said Lori Simmons with the Chicago Gig Alliance.

Conclusion

The rideshare driver rally outside City Hall demonstrates the importance of addressing the concerns of rideshare drivers. The proposed ordinance aims to address issues such as driver pay, safety, and transparency. It is crucial that the city takes action to address the concerns of rideshare drivers and ensures a fair and safe environment for all.

FAQs

* What is the Fair Share Ordinance?
The Fair Share Ordinance is a proposed ordinance that aims to improve the lives of rideshare drivers by increasing their pay, improving safety, and promoting transparency.
* What are the key provisions of the ordinance?
The key provisions of the ordinance include raising driver pay, establishing a trip minimum, automatically paying 150% surge, capping company take, providing transparency in fares, and requiring passenger verification.
* Why is the ordinance necessary?
The ordinance is necessary to address the concerns of rideshare drivers, including low pay, lack of transparency, and lack of safety. It aims to create a fair and safe environment for all rideshare drivers.