Austin, TX, Earlier this summer organizers from ADAPT of Texas joined a workgroup with the Governors Committee on Persons with Disabilities to address a lack of equitable service being provided to persons using fixed-framed wheelchairs (Electric chairs and scooters) in TNC rides (UBER-type service).

TNCs claim to be a platform that connects people to ride services and not a transportation provider. As early as 2015 WAVs (wheelchair accessible vehicles) were available on these platforms in Houston, Austin, and Dallas. Outside of these cities, TNCs refer people with disabilities who request a WAV ride to alternate providers such as taxicabs or paratransit services, if available. Paratransit service is not a viable alternative to TNC service for most passengers with disabilities. Passengers with disabilities must go through a complex and lengthy eligibility process to potentially receive paratransit services in their community. Service areas, destinations and operating times are limited compared to TNC service. Paratransit is not a demand-response service and rides must be scheduled a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Texans who use fixed-framed wheelchairs have found on-demand ride services are unreliable.

Hopefully the report of this workgroup will be available to the public soon, and improvements to existing service can be made during this legislative session.

By Nancy Crowther