Explanation
1. BACKGROUND:
This ordinance enacts new City Codes to establish licensing requirements and regulations for peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers operating as vehicles for hire in Columbus.
Since November 2013, the City has been working to create new City Code that would incorporate peer-to-peer transportation network companies and drivers into the Vehicle for Hire Code. Peer-to-peer companies are new to the City of Columbus and are a growing trend in the vehicle for hire industry. Public Safety began meeting with peer-to-peer companies six months ago to gain a better understanding of how these companies operate and how they interact with drivers. Through these meetings, the City has created regulation that is consistent with the City's overarching requirements for the entire vehicle for hire industry.
Chapter 588, entitled "Peer-to-Peer Transportation Network Company License", requires companies to obtain a license; meet and maintain insurance requirements; provide key information to passengers through the online application; and meet company standards. Chapter 590, entitled "Peer-to-Peer Transportation Network Driver's License," requires drivers to obtain a license; meet criminal background standards; complete a third party vehicle mechanical inspection; and abide by driver standards.
Peer-to-Peer companies and drivers are an emerging industry in Columbus with a vested interest in ensuring that the public has a safe, successful experience that reflects well on the industry as a whole. These codes will establish the needed regulation to ensure that companies and drivers abide by the standards put in place to ensure public safety. Creating these City Codes will continue Columbus' trend of welcoming new and innovate options to residents and businesses.
2. FISCAL IMPACT: None
Title
To amend Title 5 of the Columbus City Code by enacting new Chapter 588, entitled "Peer-to-Peer Transportation Network Company License" and Chapter 590, entitled "Peer-to-Peer Transportation Network Driver's License to establish licensing requirements and regulations for peer-to-peer companies and drivers.
Body
WHEREAS, there is a need to establish a Chapter in the Columbus City Code for the purpose of regulating peer-to-peer transportation network companies as vehicles for hire in Columbus; and
WHEREAS, there is a need to establish a Chapter in the Columbus City Code for the purpose of regulating peer-to-peer transportation network drivers as vehicles for hire drivers in Columbus; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance provides consistent regulations with all other forms of vehicles for hire in Columbus; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance established licensing requirements for both companies and drivers to ensure public safety; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance establishes language and authorizes the enactment of Chapters 588 and 590 of the Columbus City Code for the above-described purpose; now, therefore
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SEE ATTACHMENT