But sometimes, governments are really for the benefit of everybody, such as what Boston Mayor Michelle Wu did when she announced that food delivery companies operating in the city should secure a permit before they can operate. One of the affected platforms, DoorDash, is saying this increases prices. Here’s the scoop.
Permits to operate
Earlier this week, Mayor Wu announced the new ordinance requiring third-party food delivery companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and DoorDash to first secure permits before they can continue operating in the most populous city in the Massachusetts state.
This new rule will seek to end the accidents caused by the drivers of vehicles operating under those brands, which involve innocent people who are just going about their daily lives but are getting hit by those cars or motorbikes.
“The companies already have the information within their systems of who is driving the wrong way, of the unsafe behavior that is taking place,” said Wu. “This will help ensure we are getting that into oversight of our public sector.”
According to news reports, Boston’s transportation department will grant this permit, requiring the companies to show proof of liability insurance for every driver and some of their personal data. This proof can guarantee that the driver can stand up for their victims when they need to get compensated in whatever way after getting hit by their vehicle.
Price hikes
DoorDash was one of those companies brave enough to share what they think of this new ordinance, saying that it will cause more harm than good, especially since it may cause price hikes for customers.
"We’re committed to playing our part in helping cities like Boston thrive, while promoting safety in their busiest neighborhoods. However, this ordinance would clearly miss the mark in its efforts to create safer streets, doing little to improve safety for Dashers or the public and creating new costs that would add price hikes for Boston families along the way,” the company told the media.
What do you think of this new ordinance? Share us your thoughts in this forum.
Other DoorDash news
Meanwhile, in other DoorDash news, the company is strengthening its initiatives to reduce hunger nationwide by bringing more online grocery delivery options its millions of consumers. One of these is through the SNAP/EBT cards.
More merchants will be able to join the DoorDash Marketplace and accept SNAP/EBT payments. These include the Wakefern Food Corp., Southeastern Grocers, and BJ’s Wholesale Club.
“We’re proud to offer online grocery delivery to SNAP beneficiaries, helping them access fresh, affordable food regardless of their circumstances – whether they face time constraints, limited transportation, or mobility challenges,” stated a DoorDash official.
Can DoorDash help fight food insecurity once and for all? Keep following Ridesharing Forum for more news.