What is exactly is Ridesharing Works for Austin? They’re a political action committee that was formed just after City Council passed a fingerprint-based background check ordinance for ride-hailing companies in December. Both Uber and Lyft have raised concerns about their ability to continue operating in Austin if the background check rule goes into effect.
The new group is a coalition that includes ATX Safer Streets, TechNet, Old Austin Neighborhood Association, Engage ATX, NetChoice, and Austin Music People.
Ridesharing Works for Austin is predominately funded by Uber and Lyft, according to recently released campaign finance reports. Both Uber and Lyft report a large number of in-kind contributions to Ridesharing Works for Austin, totaling about $26,841 between the two of them, largely for staff time and travel expenses.
Independently from Ridesharing Works for Austin, both Uber and Lyft have also spent money on the fingerprinting debate. According to campaign finance reports, Lyft spent $15,928 on staff time, legal fees, and field services. Uber spent $3,500 on staff/contractor time.
