THE WATER COOLER
As the Austin City Council nears a decision on tightening rules for app-based ride-service providers, Uber unveiled “Kitchen Uber,” a horse-and-buggy service named after Council Member Ann Kitchen, who has been the moving force for the new rules.
Kitchen responded: “The rules are not about getting rid of Uber. The fact that a corporation is attacking the council because they don’t want to comply with safety rules is disgraceful.”
Benjamin Horner: Their message is literally “Fingerprinting-based background checks are so old-fashioned. Let us handle it.”
Compelling.
Chris Everhart: All professional drivers, be they taxi, limo, or shuttle, already go through this process every two years.
Uber and Lyft just want to skirt the rules.
Rachel Marie Marino: We are safer with Uber and Lyft around. Less drunk driving is always a good thing. Lyft already does background checks and interviews their drivers. If you’re worried about safety, take Lyft instead of Uber!
Michael Millican: I will continue to use Uber and Lyft for my rides around Austin.
Andy Jones: Classic! Uber makes an excellent point.
Micael Cano: How about Uber starts following rules? Like everyone else.
Tony DePaolo: I hate those urban horse rides. Those poor horses have to stand on hot pavement all day and endure traffic. They are harnessed all day and — in some cases — well into the night.
Whoever thought this was a good idea ought to have their heads handed to them.
Robin Null: Get the poor horses off the street! Come on, now.
Larry Gentry: It’s not innovative to find temporary ways around regulations and taxes while wrecking people’s livelihoods.
Mike Brad: What is wrong with Uber complying with the same requirements that are required of taxis?
Marla Broaddus: Uber is disgusting. Don’t put animals in harm’s way to line your pockets!
Jess Fair: I love this. Hilarious!
Alma Victoria Sierra: Uh-oh. Does PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) know about this?
Blaine Wright: More regulations? Just go away, Ann Kitchen!