Mpls. Allows Uber, Lyft To Operate, But With Most Taxi Rules
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minneapolis has legalized the operation of transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft, but on the condition they follow many of the same requirements as taxi companies.
According to city officials, Minneapolis council members also voted to modernize the city's taxi ordinances, which have been in place since the early 1980s.
City Council Member Jacob Frey, who authored the ordinance, was pleased with the council's decision.
"Once again, our city is on the front line in the move for progress," Frey said.
Council Member Abdi Warsame authored the changes to taxi ordinances.
"These changes also make sure that many of our taxi company requirements will also be required of the transportation network companies as well, making it a fairer playing field," Warsame said.
Under the new ordinances, transportation network companies will be the license holder for all activity ties to their license application.
Drivers are not required to get a special license from the network companies, and the city will perform audits and inspections of the companies, drivers and vehicles.
Also, both taxi and transportation network companies will pay an accessibility surcharge to provide incentives to licensed para-transit providers.
