TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - A turnover in the Florida Senate could signal brighter prospects this year for a renewed proposal to prevent local governments from regulating popular app-based transportation services such as Uber and Lyft.
Identical measures were introduced in the house and senate that would create statewide rules for transportation network companies, and set insurance requirements and a level of background checks for the independently hired drivers.
St. Petersburg Republican Jeff Brandes is sponsoring the senate bill.
"At the end of the day, tourists expect this type of access," said Brandes. "Business travelers demand these services, and frankly, Floridians deserve it."
Prior to the bills being released and the news conference, the Florida Taxicab Association announced it will continue to seek stronger background checks and insurance requirements for rideshare drivers.
