Ever since May 17th, 2017 when HB 132 written by Adam Wool and SB 14 written by Mia Costello to allow Uber and Lyft in Alaska. In this provision no municipality is allowed to regulate it. This has caused a problem many long time cab drivers who have driven to make ends meet. We need to allow the municipalities to regulate Uber and Lyft just like Alaska Yellow Dispatch and Anchorage Checker Dispatch. We need an even playing field not a lopsided playing field. We have cab drivers quitting because they can not make ends meet. This is one of few professions as an independent contractor you have to pay for everything. As I mentioned during my dispatch days you are your own business. Dispatch gives leads. The dispatch works for them. You have no health insurance unless you pay for it. You have to drive 12 hours a day and sometimes if you are not the owner. You pay lease guess what you do not make lease you lose job. Some cab drivers live on food stamps. Why should a cab driver working hard be on food stamps or even qualify for food stamps. Average cab driver makes $9 an hour that is below minimum wage now was right at minimum wage then in 2004.
Two of the state largest public employees have endorsed Walker and Mallott. These public unions support taxing Alaskans to support their causes and their special programs. They believe that you should not receive your permanent fund dividend. They support taxing Alaskans $14,516 every 3 years for a family of four. Yes the AFL-CIO and NEA-Alaska support taxing Alaskans for extra government service. Want to stop these public unions from taxing Alaskans vote for Mike Dunleavy and Kevin Meyer for Governor and you will see a rebate in your bank account.
