Transportation (Ride Sharing) Network Companies Directed to Suspend Operation as Review Continues

At this week’s General Committee meeting, Council passed a motion directing transportation network companies (TNCs) to suspend operations in Mississauga as the City’s Public Vehicle Advisory Committee (PVAC) continues a review of these companies currently operating illegally in Mississauga.

Highlights of the motion includes:

• directing TNCs and drivers to suspend operation within Mississauga until amendments to the Public Vehicle Licensing By-law are made;
• City staff continuing to enforce the Public Vehicle Licensing By-law and charge all drivers;
• Staff to report back on TNC related charges under the City’s Public Vehicle Licensing By-law;
• Federal and Provincial government be requested to undertake legislative changes to regulate TNCs to ensure that TNCs are regulated consistently across municipalities in Ontario;
• PVAC holds an open education session and makes its recommendations to Council.

“We need a safe and fair system where everyone operates under the law,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “We are taking the time and doing the work to ensure we have a level playing field.”

“The motion directing TNCs to suspend operations will give us time to ensure we have the best option for Mississauga,” said Ron Starr Ward 6 Councillor and Public Vehicle Advisory Committee Chair. “Further review will be done at the City’s Public Vehicle Advisory Committee.”

“Technology is changing many industries,” said Carolyn Parrish Ward 5 Councillor and Public Vehicle Vice Chair. “Our job is to manage the transition and make it fair. Review at the City’s Public Vehicle Advisory Committee will help us achieve that.”

The motion will be on the March 9, 2016 Council agenda for final approval.

Background

Public Vehicle Licensing By-law

The City of Mississauga’s Public Vehicle Licensing By-law regulates transportation services provided by public vehicles (taxis and limousines.) This bylaw ensures public and consumer safety, driver safety and consumer protection for public vehicle transportation services.  TNCs are currently operating in Mississauga unlicensed.

Studies and Reports
Two studies were conducted by the City of Mississauga.

Taxicab and Accessible Plate Issuance Models and Taxi Fares
The study and report includes recommendations on the by-law provisions to issue taxicab plates and accessible taxicab plates as well as the setting of fares.

Study of Regulation of Transportation Network Companies A study and report was prepared on how other jurisdictions (Canada, United States, Europe) are regulating TNCs and to evaluate policy alternatives.