Senate committee debates statewide ride-sharing regulations

Published 11:54 am Tuesday, October 6, 2015

COLUMBUS (AP) — An Ohio Senate committee is ready to hear from supporters of a bill that would create one set of statewide regulations for ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft.

The lawmakers’ work comes as Uber plans to expand its Ohio workforce by adding 10,000 more drivers in the state next year, including 3,000 in Columbus alone.

Backers of the bill were scheduled to testify Tuesday before the Senate State and Local Government Committee. The bill already passed the House.

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The measure would require ride-sharing companies to apply for a permit with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, and mandate that drivers carry insurance covering work for such companies.

The companies use smartphone apps to connect drivers with passengers.