As most of you probably heard, there have been some issues on our campus regarding students being designated drivers…
Reread that last sentence. I cannot believe I even had to write that, and that this is a problem our community is choosing to address.
Now, our Student Body President has been keeping us updated on the situation and clarifying some key concepts, but in case you skipped over those emails or were too upset about the situation, here is a quick run down of what’s going on:
An email was sent out about how being a “designated driver” on campus is illegal…this is what a lot of people concluded.
Here’s the truth: Taxi Drivers are upset because they feel that students are taking their business by picking up friends from downtown and around campus. They are even more upset because they’re doing so without the proper certification from the City of Bloomington and the Town of Normal.
My issue: Whenever I’m downtown, I rarely see taxi cabs eager for our business. However, since there are so many people, its not like they are being left out to dry just because a friend has picked people up instead.
The good news is that ISU Police will not be enforcing this.
The bad news is some students may need rides off campus, and the City of Bloomington will be enforcing this rule. But this should not discourage us from giving rides to our friends who are in absolutely no state to drive…the safteyu systems we use SHOULD continue to happen. We just need to be a little smarter about it.
The main issue is is charging and advertising these services over social media. I suggest to post in your PRIVATE groups on Facebook; tell them to spread the word to their roommates and their groups as well. If people decide to “tip” you, be aware of where the cash is. Do not have it somewhere in plain sight in your car. If you do get pulled over, that’s a tough one to get around if they can see you are being paid.
Be smart and continue helping each other get home safely. The Student Government Association will be researching different solutions to the issue as well as speaking with the City of Bloomington.