Whereas the Province of BC has created a regulatory framework permitting transportation network services to operate in BC, which provides a passenger transportation option to address the significant public need for vehicles-for-hire and, in turn, reduce impaired driving, improve the ability of seniors and persons with barriers to access needed resources, and stimulate economic development; And whereas the Provinces regulatory framework is so onerous that it effectively prohibits the establishment of transportation network services outside of the Lower Mainland, and particularly in small, rural, and remote communities where it has the greatest potential to address areas underserved by traditional public transportation options: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province of BC to amend the Passenger Transportation Act to establish an area-based, tiered, regulatory solution that will enable viable and competitive transportation network services in small rural and remote communities as well as other communities outside of the Lower Mainland.
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure The Province has worked hard to deliver on its commitment to bring transportation network services, known as ride-hail, to BC. Ride-hailing is a complex issue and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure held extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, such as the Accessibility Secretariat, BC Chiefs of Police Association, municipalities, transit authorities and passenger transportation companies to make sure ride-hailing is done right in BC. The changes to the Passenger Transportation Act and the Passenger Transportation Regulation, which came into force on September 16, 2019 allow the entry of ride-hail to BC and requires drivers to have a Class 4 licence and undergo a police record and driving record check. Passenger safety in the ride-hailing industry is a priority and these requirements make BC a leader in promoting safety in this industry. Many companies have applied to offer ride-hailing services in BC and the independent Passenger Transportation Board is responsible for reviewing and issuing decisions on applications. The Board is also responsible for determining supply, boundaries and rates for ride-hail companies, and has established five regions of operation for the province. Each region has a dozen or more companies interested in offering ride-hail services, including those with rural and remote communities. The Passenger Transportation Act includes a requirement for the Legislative Assembly to appoint a special committee on or before January 1, 2022. This committee will be tasked in part to review whether the Act promotes commercial passenger transportation services, including ride-hail, in small, rural or remote communities.