MONTREAL – Uber called for a compromise on Quebec’s Bill 100 regarding the taxi industry Monday.
In a statement, the company used examples of other Canadian provinces and certain U.S. states who have legislated a middle ground between the taxi industries and ride-sharing services.
Bill 100 would require all taxi-like drivers to obtain a class 4C driver’s license, the class reserved for cabbies.
READ MORE: All drivers providing taxi-like services in Quebec must have permits: Transport Minister
They would also have to undergo regular criminal background checks and take customer service training.
Uber admitted the company has not had the best relationship with the Quebec government in the past, but is hoping to open a debate to find viable solutions in order to keep the business in the province.
“Quebecers are in need of change that encourages mobility, job creation and more choices,” the company said.
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READ MORE: Liberal Party members see major flaws in Quebec government’s Uber bill
Under the new bill, all vehicles used for taxi purposes would also need new license plates with the “T” designation.
The coalition of Quebec taxi companies (RITQ) said they will not give in to Uber’s “unreasonable” demands, citing that their services are illegal and threaten their investments.
“Would you give your car keys to a thief?” the organization asked in a statement.
“After two years of circumventing all applicable laws, we have lost our faith in Uber.”
READ MORE: Taxi union urges Quebec government to adopt Bill 100
One of the organization’s biggest concerns is the lack of financial burden that Uber drivers face, compared to taxi drivers who can spend upwards of $100,000 on their permits.
The government estimates it loses around $20 million a year in undeclared income taxes from ride-sharing drivers.
Public hearings will be held May 24, 25, 26 and 31 on the future of Bill 100.
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