Halifax is looking into changing regulations to allow for taxis to be on the same playing field as ride-hailing companies, like Uber, when it comes to rates and regulations.
City staff presented a report, Monday, to the Standing Committee to suggest modernizing rules.
According to the report, Regional Council wants to look into options on how taxi and limousine companies can set their own rates, rather than Council deciding it for them once a year.
The city does not decide on rates for transportation network companies (TNC), which is currently the industry standard.
“The introduction of TNCs into the vehicle for hire market has created an environment where two types of service providers are providing the same type of service, but with different rules on what they are allowed to charge passengers,” says the report.
The report says this “undermines” the rationale for setting rates for taxis and limousines, while TNCs can adjust their prices.
In addition, other changes would see TNCs required to have a valid municipal license that costs $100, every two years.
To get a license, it would mean drivers would need things like background checks – which is currently dependent on the company – as well as language testing.
Meantime, Keerthana Rang, spokesperson for Uber tells us in email that according to a Halifax bylaw, the city’s licensing manager can request “sensitive documents” for drivers but never asked.
Rang says, in a time when governments are trying to reduce red tape, HRM is adding a path to more.
“This proposal brings more bureaucracy, higher costs and no added safety. Alongside MADD Canada and UFCW Canada, we urge the Council to send this policy back to the drawing board.”
Regional Council needs to give the report the final stamp of approval.
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