Over the past year, rideshare drivers in Chicago have faced several challenges, including app deactivations and immigration raids. In response, the city is introducing a new initiative to support these drivers. Scheduled to begin Monday, the program will run for at least one year and will be managed by the nonprofit People’s Lobby Education Institute.
“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, director of the city’s Office of Labor Standards. As of May, approximately 87,000 drivers were registered to work with rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft in Chicago.
Lori Simmons, the lead gig organizer at People’s Lobby Education Institute, explained that the organization will provide education and training on various issues affecting drivers. Many drivers are unclear about their rights. If a driver feels unfairly deactivated from an app, they can contact the center for assistance. Drivers who believe they are being denied incentive pay may also receive help. Campos mentioned that such situations could be considered wage theft under city ordinances.
The People’s Lobby will also supply orientation materials for new drivers. These materials will cover topics such as what actions to take in case of a crash or if a passenger becomes combative. Guidance on maximizing earnings and managing expenses will also be shared. Additionally, the group intends to connect drivers with immigration resources, especially in light of past immigration raids near O’Hare International Airport.
Herman Rome, a union organizer, witnessed numerous abandoned vehicles at the Alpha Lot near Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where drivers had been detained by federal agents.
The city has tried stopping these raids by posting signs prohibiting immigration enforcement on city lots, but these attempts have been unsuccessful. Although the resource center is not a direct reaction to these raids, it aims to offer immigration resources to drivers.
The center will keep drivers informed of any legal changes, such as the legislation permitting rideshare drivers to form unions, which is awaiting the governor’s signature. The city allocated $250,000 to fund the first year of this program, with potential extensions if funding permits.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson remarked, “Chicago continues to lead the way in advancing workers’ rights and protections.” The Driver Resource Center will ensure rideshare drivers have access to vital resources. As the industry progresses, it is crucial that drivers benefit from these changes.
Drivers needing assistance can contact the resource center by texting or leaving a voicemail at 312-779-6890, or via email at [email protected]. Additional information is available on the website chicago.gov/drc.