Proposed Rideshare Ordinance Prompts Protests in Chicago

Roughly 100 supporters for both Uber and Lyft protested the plan at City Hall Wednesday

A newly proposed ridesharing ordinance is making its way through Chicago’s City Council and while taxi drivers say the ordinance would help level the playing field, rideshare employees aren’t so pleased.

The ordinance proposed by Ald. Anthony Beale would require all rideshare drivers to obtain a chauffeurs license, pass a city background check and be finger printed. 

Roughly 100 supporters for both Uber and Lyft protested the plan at City Hall Wednesday.

“Unlike other jobs, in Lyft, I can make money on my own schedule, be with my kids, pay my bills,” Lyft driver Lamont Campbell said. “Lyft has allowed me to do that.”

Uber also began airing new ads in its Chicago market, touting its reach to the South and West sides.

Cab drivers remain frustrated, however, noting that they pay for medallions and face more regulation than their rideshare counterparts. 

“We’re getting treated unfair right now,” said taxi driver Bennie Traylor. “We don’t want Uber completely gone, we just want a fair system, like the rates. And we have more regulation. That’s not fair.” 

Still, both rideshare companies plan to continue fighting the proposed regulations.

The ordinance has not yet been voted on by the City Council.

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