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Several Aldermen Join Taxi Industry In Opposition To Emanuel's Proposed Ride-Sharing Rules

(CBS) -- Several City Council members are joining Chicago's taxi industry in fighting what they say are unfair breaks in the budget for ride-sharing services like Uber-X and Lyft, reports WBBM Political Editor Craig Dellimore.

John Arena of the 45th Ward is one of 14 aldermen who say Mayor Rahm Emanuel's proposed rules for the smartphone-summoned car services will strangle the livelihood of regular cabbies. Arena says professional drivers must have serious background checks, liability insurance and they pay substantial fees. Uber, Lyft and similar services have lesser requirements.

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"As drivers and as small business owners, our constituents rely on the taxi industry for full-time jobs that support their families," Arena said. "By giving massive corporations a free ride at the behest of hardworking Chicago cab drivers, the mayor is turning his back on his own constituents."

The taxi industry association is suing the city over the proposed rules that would allow ride-sharing services to operate at the airports, McCormick Place and Navy Pier, which cabbies say are their most consistent income generators.

Uber released a statement saying in part, "Uber is creating economic opportunities and providing rides all across Chicago, especially in neighborhoods that taxi has long ignored."

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