Chicago Launches Initiative to Support Rideshare Drivers

Over the past year, rideshare drivers in Chicago have contended with numerous challenges such as app deactivations and immigration raids. To address these issues, the city has initiated a new program to provide support to these drivers. The nonprofit People’s Lobby Education Institute will manage this initiative, set to commence on Monday and last at least a year.

“This specific subset of workers plays an important role in the city, and we want to ensure that they are as successful as they can be,” stated Miguel Campos, the director of the city’s Office of Labor Standards. As of May, approximately 87,000 individuals were registered as drivers for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft in Chicago. In addition, 13,000 drivers were licensed as “public chauffeurs,” which includes drivers of taxis, limousines, pedicabs, and sightseeing vehicles such as tour buses.

Education and Resources for Drivers

Lori Simmons, lead gig organizer at the People’s Lobby Education Institute, indicated that the organization will offer education and training on a variety of matters affecting drivers. “A lot of drivers really have no idea what their rights are,” Simmons said. For example, if a rideshare driver believes an app deactivation was unjustified, they can contact the center for resources and assistance.

Campos mentioned that drivers feeling deprived of incentive pay, such as bonuses provided for completing a certain number of rides, might receive help through the center. “We do have an ability, case by case… to consider that to be a form of wage theft under city ordinance,” Campos stated. “That’s the type of information that we want the drivers to know.”

The People’s Lobby aims to give orientation materials for new drivers. Information will include guidance on what to do in case of a crash or if a passenger becomes aggressive. Drivers will also receive advice on maximizing earnings and managing expenses and mileage. Simmons noted that the organization will help drivers access immigration resources.

Addressing Immigration and Legal Changes

During President Trump’s immigration crackdown, Chicago faced challenges as federal agents frequently raided parking lots near O’Hare International Airport, targeting rideshare drivers. Despite city efforts, such as signage indicating that immigration enforcement is banned on city-owned sites, Border Patrol agents continued their operations. Campos clarified that the resource center was not a direct reaction to these airport incidences, but the program could still assist drivers with immigration resources.

The center will also update drivers on legal changes affecting them. Recently, Illinois legislators passed a law allowing rideshare drivers to form unions, pending the governor’s approval. Funded initially with $250,000, the resource center has an option to extend for two more years, depending on financial support.

“Chicago continues to lead the way in advancing workers’ rights and protections,” Mayor Brandon Johnson stated. “The Driver Resource Center will ensure that Public Chauffeurs have access to critical resources, education, and support. As the industry and technology continue to evolve, it was a priority to ensure rideshare drivers share in the benefits of this programming.”

For assistance, drivers can contact the resource center by texting or leaving a voicemail at 312-779-6890 or emailing [email protected]. The center’s website is available at chicago.gov/drc.