HARRISBURG – Senator Camera Bartolotta (R-46) unveiled legislation today that would establish a regulatory framework for the operation of transportation network companies throughout Pennsylvania.
Transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, offer prearranged transportation services through the use of a digital network. The companies are currently permitted to operate in a number of Pennsylvania counties (excluding Philadelphia) under temporary authority granted by the Pennsylvania Utilities Commission (PUC).
“Legislation is necessary to ensure these companies are allowed to operate after the temporary authority expires. It is important for state laws to keep pace with the rate of modernization,” Bartolotta said. “While there is a golden opportunity for transportation network companies to provide new options for consumers, it is also necessary that we ensure these new services operate responsibly and safely.”
Bartolotta’s legislation would ensure transportation network companies and drivers meet key requirements such as maintaining proper insurance coverage, meeting vehicle safety requirements and reporting accidents. In addition, the bill would implement a zero tolerance policy on the use of drugs or alcohol for a driver using the digital network and prevents individuals convicted of certain crimes, including burglary, robbery and sexual offenses, from offering transportation network services.
Along with providing a number of consumer protections, the legislation will authorize transportation network companies by the PUC in all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, including the city of Philadelphia.
“Transportation network companies provide services in areas that, up until now, have historically been underserved. Use of these services is likely to increase if consumers continue to have positive experiences with this mode of transportation,” Bartolotta said. “The purpose of my legislation is twofold: To establish permanent authority for the TNC industry to operate statewide and to strike an appropriate balance between innovation, convenience and public safety.”
CONTACT: Katrina Anderson (717) 787-1463