WHEREAS, With the introduction of smart phone based applications used to arrange and provide peer-to-peer transportation options, the nation is innovating ways in which Americans get from place to place; and
WHEREAS, Services such as Lyft and UberX are two such smart phone based platforms that connect riders with drivers in their communities with ease of use, safety and convenience; and
WHEREAS, An eye towards an environmentally sustainable City, Philadelphians desire and deserve additional transportation options; and
WHEREAS, The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has already issued approval of applications for Lyft and UberX to operate in 66 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties with Philadelphia being the lone exclusion; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia residents are being unfairly discriminated against by allowing this service in every other county in the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, The Pennsylvania General Assembly has had before it several bills that seek to practically regulate these Transportation Network Companies in the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Urges the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass legislation establishing regulations for Transportation Network Companies within the City of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Pennsylvania General Assembly as evidence of the sentiments of this legislative body.
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