Rep. Jay Edwards

Representative John G. Edwards (D-Dist. 70, Tiverton, Portsmouth) has introduced legislation (2016-H 8044) meant to create a comprehensive regulatory scheme for companies like Uber that use software applications to connect passengers to transportation providers.

“There’s no question that these ride-sharing companies are meeting a definite need in the marketplace, and I applaud their efforts and ingenuity.” said Representative Edwards in a press release. “I just want to make certain that they abide by regulatory rules and regulations just like everybody else. Competition is great; an unfair advantage over traditional taxi services is not.”

The three issues of utmost importance are, he said, that “the companies comply with strict insurance regulations, that drivers submit to background checks, and that the company pays taxes like everybody else — are all addressed in the legislation.”

Critics claim these companies have an unfair advantage over taxis by not having to play by the same set of rules, Rep. Edwards said. Transportation networks argue that they don’t hire drivers or purchase vehicles; they merely facilitate transactions between individuals.

Bill requirements include:

• Companies register their vehicles and provide insurance information to the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, along with obtaining a permit. Each permit, which would come with an application fee of $15,000, would allow for the use of 100 vehicle identification devices. There would be an annual charge of $150 for every vehicle over 100.

• Drivers — including traditional taxicab drivers — must undergo a national criminal records check.

• All companies would be subject to the same taxation as traditional taxicabs, including sales and use tax.

• Customers must be told in advance how much the fare will be, along with the method used for calculating the fare.

• The website must provide a picture of the driver and the license plate number. The bill would outlaw cash payments, or the accepting of fares beyond those that scheduled through the app.

“This legislation evens the playing field by making sure that these new companies pay their fair share in taxes just like everybody else,” said Representative Edwards.

“According to many of these companies, they already conform to the regulatory requirements, but there are still a lot of questions regarding insurance,” said Representative Edwards.