Originally published May 26, 2016
There has been a fair amount of news about Senate Bill 984 in Pennsylvania, which would allow companies like Uber to operate in the state. SB 984 was approved by the Senate and in early May, approved 23-2 by the House Consumer Affairs Committee. The Committee, however, tabled the bill almost immediately. Despite the fact that the House convenes on June 6, 2016, the bill is not set to be put to a vote at that time.
Coincidentally, a few weeks later, House Bill 1290, a different bill on the same topic, was approved 24-2 by the House Consumer Affairs Committee and the House plans to vote on the bill on June 6. It would then need to be considered by the Senate.
So, how is HB 1290 different from SB 984?
For one, HB 1290 does not include the 1.7 percent tax levy on the services provided, or the "minimum annual assessment fee" of $2 million from the biggest ride-sharing services, like Uber . And while it allows the Philadelphia Parking Authority to enforce the requirements of the bill and pass regulations related to the proposed service, those regulations cannot be contrary or in addition to the bill.
I will continue to provide updates as both bills make their way through the legislative process.
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