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The Minnesota Daily

Serving the UMN community since 1900

The Minnesota Daily

Serving the UMN community since 1900

The Minnesota Daily

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City Council OKs ride-sharing apps

The City Council supported ride-sharing companies but correctly kept them accountable.

Ride-sharing businesses Lyft and Uber are now legal in Minneapolis after the City Council passed an ordinance earlier this month. However, legality came at a cost. Both companies will have to pay a flat annual fee of $35,000 in addition to a $10,000 wheelchair surcharge and annual inspection costs for each vehicle. The city is willing to perform these inspections for $135 per vehicle.

The lone “no” vote on the council came from Ward 5 City Councilman Blong Yang, who was concerned with driver discrimination and accessibility. In response to concern, Ward 3 City Councilman Jacob Frey, who represents parts of the University of Minnesota area, added the $10,000 to fund a new program to exclusively serve people in wheelchairs.

In April, we asked the City Council to find a solution to keep innovative ride-sharing businesses in the Twin Cities. We’re proud of our council members’ support for this business model. Additionally, we support Frey’s addition to keep Lyft and Uber accountable in providing transportation that’s accessible in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Minneapolis’ recent ordinance is just the first step in potential regulations for this industry. While we should keep these companies accountable, stifling helpful and adaptive businesses isn’t in the best interest of the Twin Cities.

The ordinance also follows the decision by the Seattle City Council to pass similar rules regulating Uber and Lyft earlier this month. As more cities grapple with similar regulations, we hope local lawmakers adapt our market to support industry shifts and our city’s interests.

 

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