Business organization favors consistent regulatory environment across entire ride-for-hire industry

April 28, 2016, AUSTIN, TX – The Austin Chamber of Commerce announced that its Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution today in support of Austin Proposition 1.

The Chamber’s decision to support Proposition 1 includes the following resolution that was approved during its regularly scheduled monthly board meeting:

“The Austin Chamber of Commerce supports the Proposition 1 referendum to enact common sense TNC regulations on the May 7, 2016 ballot. In addition, the Austin Chamber of Commerce supports a consistent regulatory environment across the entire ride-for-hire industry, including taxi and livery service providers, by requiring uniform standards for driver background checks.”

“This is a complex issue that has generated thoughtful discussion in the business community. After careful consideration of both sides of the proposition, we don’t believe the City should have enacted new regulations,” said Tony Budet, Chairman, Austin Chamber. "Austin's original TNC practices were working well. A dynamic, job-producing business community requires that the City keep its commitments and not allow regulations to change every time a new city council is elected. We believe in a level playing field for both new and legacy ride hailing companies, such as taxis - an approach that’s supportive of innovation, entrepreneurship, and small business.”

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About the Austin Chamber

The mission of the Austin Chamber of Commerce is to provide leadership that facilitates the creation of a prosperous regional economy and effective advocacy for its 3,000 members. For more information about the Austin Chamber visit AustinChamber.com.

Media Inquiries:

Michael Berman, SVP Communications, Austin Chamber

mberman@austinchamber.com

512.322.5646