Code of Ethics

This Code of Standards & Ethics (“Code”) is established by the Houston Limousine Association (“HLA”) to govern the professional conduct of its members. The purpose of this Code is to maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior, professional integrity, and operational excellence within the limousine industry. By adhering to these standards, members contribute to the advancement of the industry, foster public trust, and uphold the reputation of the HLA.

I, the undersigned, hereby affirm and covenant to adhere to the Houston Limousine Association (HLA) Code of Standards and Ethics for Members. I further agree to abide by the decisions rendered by the HLA Board of Directors and/or Ombudsman’s Committee concerning any matters I may bring forth for review. I commit to upholding these standards in both my personal and professional conduct, thereby advancing myself, my company, my employees, and the industry I serve as an exemplar for others.

I attest that I operate a legally licensed business in the State of Texas, and/or other jurisdictions where I conduct business, possessing all relevant business licenses, and I pledge to maintain these in good standing.

MEMBER OBLIGATIONS:

1. Licensure and Permits: Members shall properly license their business(es) and obtain all necessary permits in accordance with applicable laws and regulations for all jurisdictions in which they operate.

2. Insurance: Members shall maintain the legally mandated amount of business insurance, including but not limited to vehicle insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This extends to all outsourced/insourced work performed.

3. Contractual Obligations: Members agree to honor all insourced/outsourced work agreements with fellow association members, including timely remittance of payments.

4. Dispute Resolution: Members commit to expeditiously resolving any member-to-member disputes arising from misunderstandings through the HLA ombudsman’s committee.

5. Professional Conduct: Members shall refrain from engaging in defamatory or disparaging behavior towards the HLA brand, its members, or board, including the misuse of social media platforms. This includes abstaining from using vulgar language, engaging in bullying, intimidation, threats, or physical (including legal or financial) abuse towards other member(s).

6. Conflict of Interest: Members shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the HLA/Ombudsman Committee upon becoming aware of such conflicts.

7. Financial Obligations: Members shall remain current with all association financial commitments.

Proffesional Resposabilities

In addition to the aforementioned obligations, members of the Houston Limousine Association shall adhere to the following professional responsibilities:

1. Meeting Attendance: Members are expected to attend all HLA meetings and functions, demonstrating their commitment to the association and staying informed of industry developments.

2. Mutual Assistance: Members shall take all appropriate measures to assist fellow members in distress, fostering a supportive professional community.

3. Vehicle Maintenance: Members shall operate vehicles that are properly maintained and structurally sound, ensuring the safety of passengers and compliance with industry standards.

4. Regulatory Compliance: Members shall familiarize themselves with all applicable legal regulations and conform to them in their business operations.

5. Industry Awareness: Members shall stay well-informed of industry developments, continuously educating themselves on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices.

6. Exclusive Member Engagement: Members shall refrain from utilizing non-members for farm-out work and contractual obligations, prioritizing the support of fellow HLA members.

7. Registered Operations: Members shall not use unregistered companies, vehicles, or drivers in their operations, maintaining the integrity of the industry and compliance with regulatory requirements.

8. Insurance Documentation: Members shall provide the HLA with a Certificate of Insurance naming the HLA as an additional insured, demonstrating their commitment to risk management and association protection.

9. Contractual Integrity: Members shall provide and honor all contracts regarding reservations, sales agreements, compensation for completed rides, and other business arrangements, upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

THE FOUR PILLARS OF STANDARDS AND ETHICS:

The Houston Limousine Association’s Code of Standards and Ethics is founded upon four fundamental pillars, collectively known as the Maxim RRFH:

1. Respect: Maintaining a high regard for oneself, others, and entrusted resources in daily operations and conduct. This fosters an environment of trust, confidence, and mutual cooperation.

2. Responsibility: Accepting ownership for decisions made or omitted, and their consequent outcomes. This key element of trust promotes an environment of honesty, solution-oriented thinking, and forgiveness.

3. Fairness: Adhering to rules and regulations, recognizing that compliance or violation affects all stakeholders. This involves making balanced, unbiased decisions aligned with factual truths.

4. Honesty: Embracing the imperative to be truthful in both communication and conduct, acknowledging that certain truths exist, can be ascertained, and should be safeguarded. This often requires courage, particularly in challenging circumstances.

By signing below, I affirm my commitment to uphold and embody these standards and ethical principles in my professional conduct as a member of the Houston Limousine Association.

AFFIRMATION OF COMPLIANCE:

I, the undersigned, hereby affirm and covenant to adhere to the Houston Limousine Association Code of Standards and Ethics, including the Professional Responsibilities outlined herein. I acknowledge that compliance with this Code is a condition of my membership in the HLA. I further agree to be bound by the decisions of the HLA Board of Directors and/or Ombudsman’s Committee concerning any matters brought before them for review.

I hereby attest that I operate a legally licensed business in the State of Texas, and/or other jurisdictions where I conduct business, and possess all relevant business licenses. I pledge to maintain these licenses and permits in good standing throughout my membership in the HLA.