Minnesota's rideshare drivers are on the verge of a significant pay bump following a deal struck between city and state lawmakers. In a statement obtained by the newsletter, the coalition, which includes members of the Minnesota Senate, House, and Minneapolis City Council, agreed on setting a minimum wage for these drivers. The proposed compensation clocks in at $1.27 per mile and $0.49 per minute, aligning with the rates in other major cities.
"We are happy to come to a compromise agreement with the Minneapolis City Council on a minimum compensation standard that aligns with other major metropolitan areas," Jamie Long, House Majority Leader, told the newsletter. His satisfaction with the agreement reflects a commitment to ensuring rideshare drivers earn their due. Taking the wheel to introduce the change, the amended rate will be reviewed in the House Labor and Industry Finance and Policy Committee come Tuesday.
Praising the productive discussions, Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy said in the newsletter, "This agreement is the result of hard work from the authors and stakeholders to ensure every Minnesota community has access to safe, reliable transportation." The harmonious echo of agreement rang through the city council as well, with President Elliott Payne commending the state leaders' capacity to hold tough conversations without compromising essential worker rights.
But the roads to fair pay are paved with more than just legislative action. The Minneapolis community is actively engaging in artistic expressions that embody its collective journey and values. Artists Constanza Caraballo and Marco Aguero have unveiled designs for two asphalt art murals, a collaboration with local schools. According to the newsletter, an upcoming meeting at Corcoran Park will showcase these murals, which are part of the Safe Routes to School initiative, funded by the Bloomberg Asphalt Art Initiative Grant. With over 25 years of experience under their belts, Caraballo and Aguero are making South Minneapolis streets as colorful as the community's heritage.
Representative Hodan Hassan is driving the legislative push, aiming to treat drivers with respect, she emphasized in her conversation with the newsletter. Agreements like these signal Minnesota's position at the forefront of addressing rideshare wages and workers' rights. And on a local scale, the city council's bold spring action has paved the way for this historical settlement for the 10,000 drivers who will feel the impact in their pockets, according to councilmember Robin Wonsley.
It's not just about the dough; it's about dignity and stability for those behind the wheel and the rideshare companies who depended on them, Senator Jim Abeler, a coauthor of the legislation, was reported as saying in the newsletter. The cultural fabric of Minneapolis streets too is getting a makeover, engaging the younger generation in the creative process, enriching their educational experience, and painting their path with possibilities.
