Transportation officials in Hillsborough County took a step Tuesday toward more regulation of rideshare services Uber and Lyft.
County officials say the new rules are aimed at safety.
The ridesharing services say the moves are part of a continued plan to eliminate the services.
The Hillsborough County Public Transportation Commission voted to send new regulations to a full PTC governing board new week:
The new recommendations will include:
- Level two background checks for Uber and Lyft drivers
- Fingerprinting of drivers
- Insurance coverage as required by state law
- A required wait time of seven minutes for passengers
- And a minimum fare of $7
Some riders of the service said the new rules would make them feel more comfortable.
"I think it's great to have tighter regulations," said Angela Hendrix, who uses Uber in Tampa. "Especially with the insurance. Just because you want to know you're safe when you're in a car with someone who is a complete stranger."
The committeee will be discussing the proposals at its meeting on Sept. 14. The board could amend the rules before taking a vote.
Meanwhile, Uber officials say such moves could force the rideshare service to leave Tampa.
A public hearing on the issues could come as soon as October.