SFMTA Board denies George Horbel's appeal to retain taxi medallion 1303 amid legal disputes
February 16, 2022 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) faced significant scrutiny during a recent meeting regarding the appeal of George Horbel, a long-time taxi driver whose medallion was revoked due to his lack of a current California driver's license. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, highlighted the ongoing tensions between the SFMTA and medallion holders, particularly those who are elderly or disabled.
Horbel, who has driven a taxi in San Francisco for 43 years, expressed deep anxiety over the potential loss of his medallion, which he argued is crucial for his financial security in his later years. He criticized the SFMTA's actions as "cruel" and "savage," suggesting that the agency is targeting vulnerable drivers like himself to capitalize on their medallions amid a budget surplus of approximately $100 million.
The SFMTA defended its decision, stating that medallion holders must meet specific requirements, including holding a valid driver's license and fulfilling a full-time driving requirement of 800 hours per year. The agency argued that Horbel's inability to meet these criteria justified the revocation of his medallion. However, supporters of Horbel contended that the regulations unfairly penalize disabled drivers who cannot obtain a license due to their conditions.
Public comments during the meeting reflected widespread concern among taxi drivers about the SFMTA's approach to medallion revocations. Many speakers argued that the agency's interpretation of the law is flawed and that it disproportionately affects older and disabled drivers. They called for the board to reconsider the revocation and to uphold the rights of medallion holders under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to further review the case and the implications of the SFMTA's regulations. The outcome of this appeal could set a precedent for how the agency handles similar cases in the future, particularly as it relates to the rights of disabled and elderly taxi drivers in San Francisco.
Horbel, who has driven a taxi in San Francisco for 43 years, expressed deep anxiety over the potential loss of his medallion, which he argued is crucial for his financial security in his later years. He criticized the SFMTA's actions as "cruel" and "savage," suggesting that the agency is targeting vulnerable drivers like himself to capitalize on their medallions amid a budget surplus of approximately $100 million.
The SFMTA defended its decision, stating that medallion holders must meet specific requirements, including holding a valid driver's license and fulfilling a full-time driving requirement of 800 hours per year. The agency argued that Horbel's inability to meet these criteria justified the revocation of his medallion. However, supporters of Horbel contended that the regulations unfairly penalize disabled drivers who cannot obtain a license due to their conditions.
Public comments during the meeting reflected widespread concern among taxi drivers about the SFMTA's approach to medallion revocations. Many speakers argued that the agency's interpretation of the law is flawed and that it disproportionately affects older and disabled drivers. They called for the board to reconsider the revocation and to uphold the rights of medallion holders under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to further review the case and the implications of the SFMTA's regulations. The outcome of this appeal could set a precedent for how the agency handles similar cases in the future, particularly as it relates to the rights of disabled and elderly taxi drivers in San Francisco.
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