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New Brunswick introduces legislation allowing municipalities to regulate ride-sharing services

FILE - In this July 9, 2019, file photo a Lyft ride-share car waits at a stoplight in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File)

The New Brunswick government introduced legislation Wednesday that would allow ride-sharing services, such as Uber, to operate in the province in an effort to provide people more choices in accessing transportation.

In a statement, the province said the new legislation sets the standard for drivers and vehicles. Local governments would also be required to create bylaws that set parameters for vehicle-for-hire services.

This means that a vehicle-for-hire service will only be able to operate where a local government has enacted a bylaw. Drivers and services will need to meet the requirements of these local bylaws.

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According to the province, under the amendments, ride-share drivers will need to:

  • Undergo a check of their driving record.
  • Upgrade to a Class 4 licence, the provisions of which include providing a medical fitness report.
  • Have a clean driver’s abstract.
Click to play video: 'New Brunswick taxi drivers hit hard by pandemic'
New Brunswick taxi drivers hit hard by pandemic

“Ride sharing will provide New Brunswickers more choices and flexibility in accessing transportation,” Justice and Public Safety Minister Hugh J. Flemming said in a press release. “The legislation we have brought forth will provide for a fair, safe and comprehensive ride-sharing system that could benefit communities in every part of the province.”

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The government also noted that drivers must work through a ride-sharing company authorized by a local government or municipality.

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