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Rideshare drivers urge city to create TNC task force and airport access for independent operators
Summary
Rideshare drivers and a rideshare company executive spoke at the Transportation Committee, urging a TNC task force, regular airport meetings and clearer permit rules for operators at Georgia World Congress Center properties.
Rideshare drivers and private transportation operators told the City Council Transportation Committee on March 12 that current rules governing transportation network companies (TNCs) and state-owned event properties leave drivers with little voice and make operations unpredictable.
At public comment, Felipe Martinez, speaking for ATL RDU, announced the formation of the Atlanta Rideshare Drivers' Union and asked the committee to form a "TNC task force" and to schedule monthly meetings with airport representatives so drivers can bring complaints directly to airport leadership. "We are today formally announcing the formation of the Atlanta rideshare drivers union, a rank and file organization dedicated to securing a seat at the table with our fellow workers both here in city council and at the airport," Martinez said.
Maurice Morris, chief financial officer of RR Winds LLC, which operates a premium rideshare platform, asked the committee to investigate Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) policies that he said prevent transportation companies from obtaining annual permits on GWCCA properties such as Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Morris said other state-owned venues allow annual permits and called GWCCA an exception that "is creating unnecessary barriers to innovation, competition, and job creation."
Lisa Ramsey, an organizer with Atlanta Rideshare Drivers' Union who said she has made more than 25,000 rides, described falling driver pay and rising expenses, and asked the city to pursue stronger labor protections including minimum pay, deactivation protections and transparency from platforms. Ramsey also said drivers waiting at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport do not have access to clean indoor restrooms and instead use portable toilets that can become unusable; she asked the city and airport for guaranteed access to indoor restrooms for drivers.
No committee action was taken on the comments; public comment was the forum for these appeals. Committee members asked for literature from the newly announced drivers' group and signaled interest in follow-up. Vice Chair Overstreet asked Martinez if he could share organizational materials with the committee; Martinez said he would.
