Chicago expects stricter rules for Uber, Lyft drivers

A ride-share ordinance passed Friday at the Chicago City Council meeting would increase regulations for Uber and Lyft drivers in the city of Chicago.

The ordinance, promoted by the taxicab industry, has subjected Uber and Lyft drivers to some of the same regulations for cab-drivers, including fingerprinting, drug tests and city debt checks, Chicago Tribune reported Saturday.

The Rideshare Reform ordinance also requires drivers to obtain restricted public chauffeur licenses and mandates that five percent of ride-sharing fleets be wheelchair-accessible.

The ordinance won applauses as well as oppositions.

Alderman Anthony Beale who vigorously sponsored the ordinance, told Chicago Tribune that the ordinance was to protect consumers. "This was about consumer protection, as well as making sure Uber and Lyft provide transportation to the disabled community," he said.

Mara Georges of the Illinois Transportation Trade Association, which represents cab medallion owners and operators, said current situation is killing the cab industry.

The opposition is also strong.

Chicago Mayor Emanuel has steadfastly opposed stricter rules for ride-sharing companies, and prefers not to adopt any new regulations on the nascent industry.

Uber and Lyft officials have threatened to pull out of Chicago, or alter the services they offer here greatly. Uber said in a statement released Friday that the ordinance would make it nearly twice as expensive to get a ride.

There are roughly 90,000 registered Uber and Lyft drivers in Chicago.

It is learned that the ordinance remains open to negotiations on details. Enditem