NJ lawmakers weigh ride-share regulations

New Jersey lawmakers are considering regulations for Uber, Lyft, and other companies that allow people to use smartphone apps to get rides from freelance drivers.

 

Jeffrey Shanker, president of the Limousine Association of New Jersey, said the lack of regulations for the so-called transportation network companies creates an unfair playing field. “They don’t want a commercial driver’s license. They don’t want a commercial vehicle. they don’t want commercial insurance. If these TNC’s continue to operate, the for-hire transportation industry will be decimated.”

 

Barry Lefkowitz is executive director of the New Jersey Taxicab Association. He said the lack of regulations for the ride-sharing companies threatens the survival of taxi companies.

“You’ve got all these requirements for a taxi or a limo in New Jersey and right now Uber and Lyft want really no regulation. You have to have legitimate background checks. You’ve got make sure that there’s proper insurance.”

Uber spokesman Matt Wing said the company supports sensible regulations. “But we don’t want them to hamper the ability of driver-partners to make the money they need and to make a good living to support themselves and their family or the ability of riders to get a ride quickly and easily.” Uber said if the proposed legislation is enacted, it would prohibit the company from operating in the Garden State.