12/2/2024 -- New Rideshare Law Goes Into Effect

Transportation

New Rideshare Law Took Effect Sunday: Higher Pay for Drivers, Increased Costs for Riders 🚗

The Summary: As of yesterday, rideshare drivers in Minnesota will earn $1.28 per mile, $0.31 per minute, and no less than $5 per ride under a new state law. The legislation, which also includes protections and benefits for drivers, comes after months of negotiations and pushback from Uber and Lyft.

Rider Costs Expected to Rise: Uber estimates a 25% increase in trip costs in the Twin Cities area but plans to keep prices as low as possible. Lyft has not disclosed specific changes but emphasized its commitment to fairness in driver processes.

Legislative Journey: The law follows a contentious process involving vetoes by Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, as well as local and statewide legislative efforts. The state law ultimately superseded a Minneapolis city ordinance with slightly higher pay standards.

Looking Ahead: Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association expects more drivers to join as the new wages take effect. The change in law over the summer also encouraged new rideshare companies to enter the Twin Cities market.

Business

Judge Halts Minnesota Cannabis License Lottery After Multiple Lawsuits 🚬

The Summary: A Ramsey County judge halted Minnesota's planned cannabis business license lottery following lawsuits from applicants who claimed they were unfairly disqualified. The lottery was intended to provide preapproval for 282 social equity applicants, giving them a head start before the general licensing period next year.

Lawsuits and Judge's Decision: The Office of Cannabis Management rejected two-thirds of applications for issues like incomplete documentation, sparking four lawsuits. Judge Stephen Smith issued a stay, allowing plaintiffs time to appeal, citing the need for fairness and transparency in the new cannabis market.

Impact on Minnesota’s Cannabis Market: Minnesota’s recreational cannabis rollout, set for early 2025, faces further delays as litigation complicates the timeline. Without licenses issued or cultivation started, the market launch may be pushed back, creating uncertainty for entrepreneurs and regulators.

What Else We’re Reading…

Concerned St. Paul residents have signed a petition against proposed supportive housing facility

Residents of St. Paul's East Side neighborhood are expressing concerns over a proposed supportive housing facility, the Aragon, due to issues at the nearby Kimball Court facility, which has faced problems with drug use and crime. The Aragon is planned near two elementary schools, prompting fears about safety and community impact. Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative, the nonprofit behind both projects, says that the Aragon will implement enhanced safety measures, including professional property management and collaboration with local law enforcement.

Read the full article on WCCO

GAME: Where is this?

📍 This bunny statue is located somewhere in the Twin Cities. Do you know where?

Today’s game is presented by Tim Ferris’ Five Bullet Friday.

Sports 🏈

Vikings Survive Another Nailbiter, Improve to 10-2 🏈

The Summary: The Minnesota Vikings overcame a 13-point deficit late in the third quarter to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 23-22 at U.S. Bank Stadium. Sam Darnold’s pass to Aaron Jones with 1:13 left sealed the game, extending the Vikings' winning streak to five games.

Key Moments

• Game-Winning Drive: Facing fourth-and-5, Darnold hit Jefferson for 12 yards, keeping the drive alive before connecting with Jones for the decisive touchdown.

• Turning Point: A six-play, 70-yard drive in the third quarter pulled the Vikings within six points and shifted momentum.

What It Means: The Vikings improve to 10-2, staying a game behind the Lions in the NFC North. According to the New York Times Playoff Predictor, the Vikings have a 97% chance of making the playoffs.

Up Next: The Vikings host the Falcons next Sunday, a potential playoff preview as Kirk Cousins returns to U.S. Bank Stadium.

Other Sports

🏒 The Minnesota Frost lost their season opener to the NY Sirens after being up 2-0. They raised the Walter Cup banner into the rafters of the Xcel Arena during a pre-game ceremony.

🏀 The Minnesota Timberwolves snapped a four-game losing streak by beating the LA Clippers 93-92. Anthony Edwards had 21 points in the win.

🏒 The Minnesota Wild won in overtime over the Nashville Predators to improve their record to 16-4-4.

🏈 The Gopher football team beat the Wisconsin Badgers in their annual border battle, returning Paul Bunyan’s Axe to Minneapolis.

Quick hits

Headlines From Around The Twin Cities ✔

❯ A fire in a South Minneapolis homeless encampment damaged a neighboring home last Thursday (KSTP)

❯ A first-of-its-kind clinic in Minneapolis is offering services for people with or at risk of HIV (WCCO)

❯ Deaths from ATV crashes in Minnesota have surged in 2024 (MPR)

❯ One person is dead after a shooting on a Green Line train in St. Paul (Bring Me The News)

The Final Word: Late To The Party 🍚

I went to Gai Noi over the holiday weekend and had one of the better meals and dining experiences.

After receiving national attention, I finally experienced what all the rave was about: incredible food, affordable prices, and great ambience. Pro tip: get the chicken wings, green beans, and the yellow curry — you won’t regret it.

*not sponsored*

-Patrick