UBER DRIVERS SHOULD NOT BE OUT OF WORK IF SB1280 IS APPROVED

Honolulu Taxi companies to help Uber drivers become licensed Taxi Drivers

News Release from Kālaimoku Group April 8, 2015

Honolulu, HI – Yesterday, Hawaii legislators voted to take bill Senate Bill 1280 into conference as the final weeks of the 2015 legislative session approach. SB 1280 seeks to regulate Transportation Network Companies by appropriating funds to the state Public Utilities Commission for the purpose of regulating Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) and their drivers. The bill would also mandate that TNCs register as businesses with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. It would also establish insurance requirements and qualifications for ride-hailing drivers.

“Drivers shouldn't feel like they can't make a living or make part-time money transporting passengers,” said Dale Evans, President of Charley's Taxi. Evans also said “Our company will happily help any Uber driver who wants to keep driving legally as a Taxi driver. We'll assist them with following the necessary steps to get licensed, get the correct equipment and have the proper insurance. Nobody should lose out on their ability to earn money because of SB1280. Honolulu is one of the easiest cities in America to become a licensed Taxi driver. Honolulu's open entry Taxi system allows anyone, who is willing to follow the rules, to participate”

There are over 2,000 licensed taxi drivers operating legally in Honolulu. Most are independent contractors while others are employees of Taxi companies. All are licensed to drive a Taxi and follow the current rates and regulations set forth by State and City authorities.

David Jung, General Manager of Eco Cab said “Uber-X has been basically operating illegally in Honolulu for years. We are very pleased that legislators are responding to the community. Uber, high on venture capitalist money has become the school yard bully both here and at the national level. Their sudden rise as billionaires has led them to act as if they’re above the law. SB 1280 is a good first step to making sure all commercial drivers follow the rules and operate in a safe, legal and fair manner, corporate greed should never take priority over public safety and consumer protection.”

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