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Ride-sharing companies may get a lift from state lawmakers

Steve Carmody
/
Michigan Radio

Michigan lawmakers are acting quickly on legislation to legalize riding-sharing companies like Uberand Lyft.

Credit Steve Carmody / Michigan Radio
/
Michigan Radio

The app-based taxi-like service links people who need a ride with willing motorists.

The services appear to be in violation of state law. Some cities, like Ann Arbor, have tried to prevent them from operating. Others, like Lansing, have been more welcoming.

State Rep. Tim Kelly, R-Saginaw, says his bill would basically sidestep existing regulations for taxi services.

“One could say they are operating ... out of bounds of the law,” says Kelly. “So what we’re trying to do is bring them into compliance.”

Kelly introduced his bill last week. The House Energy and Technology Committee has already taken testimony on the bill. 

Kelly expects his bill will pass duringthe lame-duck session.

Copyright 2014 Michigan Radio

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Radio since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting. During his two and a half decades in broadcasting, Steve has won numerous awards, including accolades from the Associated Press and Radio and Television News Directors Association. Away from the broadcast booth, Steve is an avid reader and movie fanatic. Q&A