Gov. Baker Signs Massachusetts' Regulations on Uber, Lyft into Law

BOSTON, MA — Hailing it as a down-to-the-wire victory, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed regulations on mobile ride-booking apps like Uber and Lyft into law Friday.

In brief remarks after the signing, Baker thanked legislators for "pushing this through." Lawmakers passed the final version of the bill just half an hour before the Legislature's formal session ended at midnight last Sunday.

"This is a highly charged issue. I think we all get that," Baker said, after signing Friday. "But it's very important for Massachusetts to put in place a statewide framework."

He said this bill — the "most comprehensive" regulations package of its kind — addresses public safety and vehicle identification challenges faced by the disruptive, app-fueled taxi competitors.

Baker signed the bill over objections from state law enforcement leadership, including Boston Police Commissioner William Evans, who pushed to no avail for fingerprinting to be required as part of driver background checks.

>> Photo via Gov. Charlie Baker Twitter