Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection launch Driver Resource Center

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection launch Driver Resource Center

The selected organization will provide outreach, education and build trust in communities to empower Public Chauffeurs with knowledge of their rights.

CHICAGO - Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs CHICAGO - Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) launched the Driver Resource Center (DRC) for City licensed Public Chauffeurs, including Transportation Network Provider (TNP) Drivers. Through a Request for Proposal process, the People's Lobby Education Institute was selected to operate the DRC and provide assistance in accessing direct representation, support and outreach and education services for all BACP Licensed Public Chauffeurs. Public Chauffeur license types include Taxi, Livery, Low-Speed Electric PPV, Charter/Sightseeing Vehicles (with a capacity under 16), Pedicab, and ride-hail. For more information, visit Chicago.gov/DRC.

"Chicago continues to lead the way in advancing workers' rights and protections," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The Driver Resource Center is now a reality, and it will ensure that Public Chauffeurs have access to critical resources, education, and support. As the industry and technology continue to evolve, it was a priority to ensure ride share drivers share in the benefits of this programming. By partnering with a trusted community-based organization, we are expanding access to services that are culturally and linguistically responsive for the drivers who keep our city moving."

"Public Chauffeurs are essential to Chicago's transportation network and local economy," said BACP Commissioner Ivan Capifali. "With the selection of a dedicated partner to operate the Driver Resource Center, BACP is strengthening its commitment to providing drivers with the tools, information, and support they need to succeed and to understand and exercise their rights."

The People's Lobby Education Institute will conduct outreach and provide education and information on the Public Chauffeur industry, including licensure by BACP, best practices, safety concerns, understanding a TNP platform's terms of service and cultural and language specific training on available services and programs.

"The People's Lobby Education Institute is excited to begin work with the City of Chicago to offer 'know your rights' training to Chicago public chauffeurs," said Lori Simmons, Lead Rideshare Organizer, The People's Lobby Education Institute. "We hope to empower workers to build community together and arm them with the information they need to be effective self-advocates in an ever-changing industry."

The DRC will help Public Chauffeurs understand and navigate legal issues and make referrals to an appropriate government or legal assistance provider. Through the extension of these services to Public Chauffeurs, the selected organization will increase access to the appropriate government agencies and raise awareness about legal protections and workers' rights.

To support the livelihood of public chauffeurs, on July 1, 2026, the Taxi Fare Rates increased to align with increased expenses and cost of living. The taxi fare rates increased 10 years ago. For more information, visit Chicago.gov/RideSmart.

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