WASHINGTON, D.C. — Who would have ever thought generally conservative independent-minded limousine owners and operators would be forming alliances with Democrats, the U.S. Department of Labor and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters?
Strange bedfellows, indeed. But that’s what happened Tuesday during the National Limousine Association’s two-day annual Day on The Hill event, which concludes today as operators from around the country swarm Capitol Hill to lobby legislators against illegal TNCs that skirt established ground transportation regulations and labor laws.
The NLA’s annual efforts, though, always remain bipartisan overall, as evidenced by a meeting this afternoon between a NLA lobbying team and House Republican Majority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., in his Capitol Hill office. (See photo above).
Considering Republican governors and elected officials tend to favor Uber and Lyft and cast a blind eye at those companies when it comes to rules, regulations and labor laws, the NLA and members have found solidarity with many Democrats and labor advocates
The guest speaker lineup on April 26 included Dr. David Weil, administrator, Wage and Hour Division, United States Department of Labor; Ian Gold, director, Strategic Research and Campaigns Department, International Brotherhood of Teamsters; a staff member for Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., and an evening fundraising reception featuring Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.
During Tuesday’s events there was an overall sense among NLA board directors (which also held its quarterly meeting), member association board members, and individual operators that the tide may be turning against TNCs. TNCs, like Uber, have not only violated private standard ground transportation rules, regulations and safety practices, but also ignored federal worker classification rules and evaded paying taxes.
Although there is cautious optimism the industry’s “voice” is now being heard, everyone attending agreed the fight will continue for a long time because of the deep pockets of the TNCs that far outspend the NLA and associations in lobbying and public relations efforts.
But there is a glimmer of hope because of new government and labor alliances and Congressional supporters that ultimately could yield a more level playing field.
Related LCT article: NLA President Outlines TNC Counter-Offensives
Keywords
Day On the Hill DOL issues. Department of Labor industry politics legislation lobbying NLA NLA board of directors TNCs Uber Washington DC
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