Michigan Senate Approves Regulating Uber, Lyft
Mich. Senate wants Uber and Lyft to pay state fees, do background checks just like taxicabs. Plan now goes to House.
The Michigan Senate has approved legislation that would allow the state to regulate transportation services like Uber and Lyft.
For years taxicab operators complained that they were at a disadvantage compared to companies like Uber or Lyft because taxis were required to pay far more fees.
That could change under proposed legislation covering both companies like Uber and those using standard taxicabs.
The new regulations would require actions like background checks for drivers and vehicle inspections.
It would also institute a state registration fee.
At the moment Uber and Lyft typically operate in Michigan under a variety of rules set by individual communities.
Officials with the ride-booking firms have lobbied the Legislature to create overall statewide standards and regulations.
The proposal now moves to the Michigan House.
