Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases insurance requirements for ridesharing companies.

Highlights:

• Establishes the following requirements for transportation network company insurance coverage (Sec. 2):

• At least $1.5 million for bodily injury, death, or destruction of property during an accident or crash that occurs when a ride is being given; and

• At least $300,000 for bodily injury, death, or destruction of property when the driver is logged into the company’s digital network and available to receive requests for rides.

• Specifies that requirements that apply to taxicab drivers to not apply to independent contractors (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that certificate-holding individuals may lease taxicabs to independent contractors with approval from the Taxicab Authority (Sec. 1).

• Establishes that independent contractors who lease taxicabs must copy their lease agreement and send it to the Taxicab Authority so that both the independent contractor and certificate holder are jointly and severally liable (Sec. 1).

• Requires individuals applying for a taxicab driver permit to submit their Social Security number on the application (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes the Taxicab Authority to deny or fail to renew a driver’s permit if (Sec. 1);

• Incorrect application materials are submitted;

• Applicants are subject to court orders for child support and found noncompliant;  or

• Any court order has been issued to an applicant suspending professional or recreational licenses.

• Prohibits transportation network companies from operating in the state unless they hold a valid permit issued by the Taxicab Authority (Sec. 1).

• Requires proof that applicants have entered into an agreement with a transportation network service in order to be issued a permit (Sec. 2).

• Authorizes the Authority to refuse issuance of a permit if the applicant is under 19 years old, has committed a felony within 5 years prior to the application, or if the issuance of a permit to an individual would be a harm to public health or safety (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits a transportation network company from allowing a driver to operate a vehicle that has less than 4 doors, is designed to carry more than 8 passengers, or does not have the required permit affixed to the vehicle (Sec. 2).

• Requires that the name or logo of the transportation network with which the driver is affiliated be attached to the front and rear of the motor vehicle (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text