Chicago Launches Resource Center for Rideshare Drivers

In the past year, rideshare drivers in Chicago have encountered numerous challenges such as app deactivations and immigration raids. To address these issues, the city has initiated a program to assist these drivers. This program is managed by the People’s Lobby Education Institute and began on Monday. It will run for at least one year.

Miguel Campos, the director of the city’s Office of Labor Standards, emphasized the importance of rideshare drivers to the city. He stated, “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.” According to Campos, around 87,000 workers were registered to drive for apps like Uber and Lyft as of May. In addition, there are 13,000 drivers licensed as public chauffeurs, which includes taxi, limo, and sightseeing vehicle drivers.

Lori Simmons, the lead gig organizer at the People’s Lobby Education Institute, mentioned plans to provide education and training on various issues affecting drivers. Simmons indicated that many drivers are unaware of their rights. She explained that a driver deactivated from an app who feels the action was unjust could seek help and resources from the center. Simmons also noted assistance is available for drivers who feel deprived of incentive pay. Campos pointed out, “We do have an ability, case by case, to consider that to be a form of wage theft under city ordinance.” This information is crucial for drivers to understand.

The People’s Lobby plans to offer orientation materials for new drivers. They will provide guidance on handling incidents such as crashes or confrontational passengers. Furthermore, drivers will receive tips on maximizing earnings and keeping records of expenses and mileage. Simmons mentioned that the group would also connect drivers with immigration resources. Last year, during President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement in Chicago, federal agents conducted raids in parking lots near O’Hare International Airport, affecting several drivers. Despite the city’s efforts to prevent these raids, including posting signage at city-owned lots, they continued.

Campos noted that the resource center was not a direct response to these raids but aims to connect drivers to immigration resources nonetheless. The center will also update drivers on legal changes impacting them. Illinois lawmakers have passed legislation allowing rideshare drivers to form unions, pending the signature of Governor JB Pritzker. The program has secured $250,000 in funding for its first year, with possibilities for two additional one-year extensions if more funding is available.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson remarked, “Chicago continues to lead the way in advancing workers’ rights and protections. The Driver Resource Center is now a reality, and it will ensure that Public Chauffeurs have access to critical resources, education, and support.” Drivers can reach the center by texting or leaving a voicemail at 312-779-6890. They can also contact via email at [email protected]. The resource center’s website is chicago.gov/drc.