Over the last two years, Teamster taxi drivers have worked hard to help create a level playing field for all drivers in our region’s personal transportation industry.

Representatives of the Western Washington Taxicab Operators Association (WWTCOA) successfully negotiated a policy in Seattle that gives taxi drivers a fighting chance to earn a living for themselves and their families.

Now some legislators in Olympia want to give so-called Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft a special status that would allow these companies to subvert local laws. This would give TNCs an unfair, competitive advantage over taxi, limousine, and for-hire drivers.

Lawmakers need to know that it’s not okay for TNCs to have their own special insurance, training, licensing, and background check requirements. All stakeholders in the industry should be treated equally and not be given special preference.

Senate Bill 5550 will be heard by the Senate Transportation Committee on February 2. Taxicab operators are contacting legislators on the committee and plan to testify in opposition to the bill.

If the bill makes it to the Senate floor for a vote, we will be calling on all Teamsters to support their Brothers and Sisters in the taxi industry and unite in opposition to this legislation.

For more information about SB5550, contact Business Representative Dawn Gearhart at 206-441-4860 ext. 1254.