MONTREAL – Quebec Transport Minister Jacques Daoust is expected to table a piece of legislation that could drastically affect Uber’s operations in the province.
Wednesday, Daoust told reporters the bill passed an agreement in cabinet and details will be made public when it is tabled next week.
According to La Presse, the proposed law would regulated the ride-sharing service and force all drivers to buy taxi permits.
READ MORE: Montreal taxi drivers protest Uber by blocking airport
Regulations could also include restricting the number of Uber cars operating in the province and introducing mandatory taxes on each fare.
“The government has to do something because it’s not fair,” said cabbie George Georgoulis, who was waiting for his next fare outside the Queen Elizabeth Hotel.
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[Uber] can’t just come in here and do whatever they want.”
WATCH: Uber vs. taxis in Quebec
For months, taxi drivers have been protesting the ride-sharing service, saying it’s illegal and it’s hurting their bottom lines.
“At least if this law is passed they would be competing with us legally,” driver Olivard Occean told Global News.
READ MORE: Montreal taxi drivers egg Uber car during downtown protest
Uber released a statement saying “Transport Minister Daoust is moving in the opposite direction, drafting rules to shut down Uber across the province.”
“We hope the Quebec government will take the time to consider more progressive alternatives so that it doesn’t fall behind.”
READ MORE: Montreal taxi sheriff confronts Uber driver, smashes cellphone in protest
The bill is expected to be tabled in the National Assembly next week.
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