Uber, Lyft Bill Inked By Gov. Rick Scott

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Uber and Lyft operators across the state of Florida will face new rules of the road starting on July 1. Gov. Rick Scott on Tuesday inked legislation that creates uniform rules for ridesharing services across the state, effectively overriding a mishmash of local laws.

“I’m proud to sign this legislation today to make it easier for ridesharing companies to thrive in Florida and help ensure the safety of our families,” Scott said in a statement announcing his decision to sign the bill. “Florida is one of the most business-friendly states in the nation because of our efforts to reduce burdensome regulations and encourage innovation and job creation across all industries, including transportation. I look forward to seeing the continued growth of ridesharing companies in our state.”

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The new let sets minimum insurance levels while also requiring companies like Lyft and Uber to perform background checks on drivers. It also institutes a zero-tolerance policy in regard to drug and alcohol use. Fare transparency is also required so passengers can calculate or estimate their costs before riding.

Ridesharing companies pushed for the legislation, arguing that different rules across the state made it difficult to do business.

“We go from a patchwork of local regulations that were in conflict to each other to a statewide regime that provides harmony, stability and certainty for riders and drivers alike,” said Uber spokesman Colin Tooze was quoted by the Miami Herald as saying.

Taxi and limousine companies, however, argued against the state-level measure. These companies have been historically regulated by local governments and say the bill doesn’t create a level playing field.

State officials, however, say the bill will help workers and riders alike.

“This legislation will ensure the innovative ridesharing network across Florida continues to thrive,” Cissy Proctor, the executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity said in a statement following the bill’s approval. “Helping Florida businesses grow is critical to our economy, and this bill will also empower workers across the state to work when and where they want to meet the needs of their families.”

The bill passed the House unanimously and only received one nay vote in the Senate. The new rules go into effect on July 1, 2017. To read more about the bill, visit the House online.

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