MADISON, Wis (WSAU-Wheeler News) The Wisconsin Assembly is scheduled to vote today on new statewide regulations for online ride-sharing services like Uber. It’s one of about two dozen measures up for approval in a session this afternoon. Ride-sharing services involve private drivers who pick up passengers who call them on smartphone apps.
Under the bill companies would have to buy state licenses, arrange for criminal background checks on drivers, and have at least a million-dollars in liability insurance. They must also avoid discrimination against passengers for any reason.
Uber supports the bill, saying it would be easier to follow statewide standards than a hodge-podge of local ordinances. Their competition, mainly taxi services, say the government is essentially cutting into their businesses. If the bill is approved today, it would go to the Senate.
