Ride-hailing companies could be coming to Squamish next year, as the province has introduced legislation that would allow corporations like Uber to enter B.C. in 2019.
“This is milestone legislation that gets ride-hailing right for B.C.,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure in a news release. “British Columbians absolutely want more options and flexibility in how they get around, but with checks in place to make sure their ride is a safe one.”
The province says it expects applications from ride-hailing companies will be submitted to the Passenger Transportation Board (PTB) by fall next year.
If passed, the Passenger Transportation Amendment Act will enable:
-ICBC to develop a modern insurance product for ride-hailing for fall of 2019.
-A new, data-driven approach to improve taxi service and ride-hailing opportunities, particularly at high-demand locations and peak times, by strengthening the Passenger Transportation Board’s authority to determine fares, vehicle supply and operating areas.
-The development of measures to make sure people are not left stranded when traveling from one municipality to another.
-The inclusion of a per-trip fee to fund more accessibility options for people with disabilities.
-Increased enforcement of the rules with stiffer penalties for taxi and ride-hailing companies for working outside the law.
All ride-hailing and taxi drivers must maintain a Class 4 passenger licence and undergo mandatory criminal checks, the release says.
