Uber and Lyft to Exit Minneapolis Over New Wage Ordinance

The companies plan to leave in May following a city council decision to increase driver wages, sparking debate among residents and officials.

Minneapolis City Council passed an ordinance requiring higher pay for Uber and Lyft drivers, prompting the companies to announce their departure in May.
The ordinance mandates a minimum rate of $1.40 per mile and $0.51 per minute, aiming to ensure drivers earn the city's minimum wage of $15.57 per hour.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed deep concern over the potential exit's impact, urging the city council to seek a compromise.
Residents are divided, with some supporting the ordinance for benefiting marginalized workers, while others fear the loss of ride-hailing services.
Alternatives such as other ride-hailing companies and a driver-owned co-op are being considered by some drivers in anticipation of Uber and Lyft's exit.