Ridesharing Companies may soon get a green light from state lawmakers to operate across all of Florida.
The House Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee has voted to create statewide regulations for Lyft and Uber, rather than the current piecemeal approach where each city and county makes its own rules.
The law would streamline insurance and background-check requirements for drivers anywhere in the state. There have been local ordinances passed for the ridesharing companies to operate, including in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties following public fights which initially saw Uber pull out of the market.
After new regulations were adopted to put existing taxi and limousine companies on a level playing field with Uber and Lyft, there has not been any stoppage of service around Miami. Palm Beach County has enjoyed a good relationship without interruption but now other places like Orlando will begin service.
“The bipartisan vote today...is the first step toward ensuring ride-sharing has a permanent place in Florida,” said Javi Correoso, public affairs manager for Uber Florida. “Uber has become an integral part of local transportation systems, and this legislation will help expand opportunities to better connect communities.
A similar bill has been proposed in the State Senate and will be considered in this year's legislative session.
(Photo credit: Justin Sullivan)