My recent comment in a television interview citing economics as a reason for failure to haul was simply incorrect. The DC Taxicab Commission places the highest priority on eradicating this violation. The only explanation for not picking up a passenger is if a taxi driver fears harm which is an extremely high standard to meet. However, the fundamental point for the public to understand is that failure to haul is unacceptable. The Commission is committed to ensuring that taxi drivers realize they are offering a public accommodation and all people have a right to use it. I reject any suggestion of racism in my intent. My over 50 years of service in the local community working with diverse people speaks volumes to the type of person that I am.