June 1, 2009 (CHICAGO) --
Chicago taxi riders could soon have a 50-cent surcharge added to their fares. That's because gas prices in the area have topped $2.70 per gallon. If they stay above that level for seven business days, cabbies will be allowed to tack on the extra fee on Monday.
The fee helps them cope with higher gas prices.
Cab drivers are permitted to charge an extra dollar per ride if gas prices climb above $3.20 per gallon.