Press Release

PUC Approves New Technology and Rates for Central PA Taxi Start-Up; First to Use Alternative Meters & Flexible Rates Like Ride-Hailing Services

Published on 9/21/2017

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a request to utilize certain new regulations so that a start-up taxi company in Central Pennsylvania can use computer tablets, in place of traditional meters, along with a flexible rate structure for their taxi service. These options were made available by the PUC’s implementation of Act 85 of 2016, to provide traditional taxi companies with flexibility similar to the operation of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), commonly known as ride-hailing or ride-sharing services.

The Commission voted 4-0 to approve the use of alternative meters and flexible rates by Susquehanna Valley Taxi Service, which is based in Northumberland, PA.  The company serves riders in Northumberland, Snyder and Union counties and was issued a PUC certificate to operate as a motor carrier in January 2017.

“For the past several years, the Commission has been actively engaged in updating our transportation regulations and implementing legislative changes to encourage innovation and remove potential barriers,” said PUC Chairman Gladys M. Brown. “At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that all transportation services operate safely and reliably.”

In its petition, Susquehanna Valley Taxi highlights potential advantages to using tablets equipped with GPS software, in the place of traditional taxi meters, including more accurate mapping and address information, additional payment options for riders and the ability to book rides with a smart phone. They also note that flexibility is needed to compete with TNCs.

“The PUC has continued its comprehensive examination of how the PUC’s regulations and legislative directives address the dramatically changing landscape in the transportation industry,” said Commissioner John F. Coleman, who helped initiate the PUC’s study. “Consumers benefit when they have more options, and we are pleased to see providers make use of new technology and opportunities to improve service.”

As part of the ongoing effort to address changes in the transportation industry, the PUC approved new Regulations for the Taxi and Limousine Industry in December 2016, as directed by Act 85. Those changes were intended to ensure that traditional taxi companies were not placed at a regulatory competitive disadvantage to TNCs.

Importantly, while alternatives to traditional taxi meters, such as tablets, are an option – those devices must be approved by the Commission, and must meet requirements for accuracy and consumer information. Additionally, customer notification provisions – including the disclosure of the estimated fare prior to the trip – are required.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission on Facebook for easy access to information on utility issues.

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Docket Nos.: P-2017-2609367, R-2017-2591056

Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov