Roundtable Discussion on Transportation Network Companies (TNC)

SUBJECT: Transportation Network Companies: a closer look at emerging transportation options.

PURPOSE: To discuss statutory and regulatory requirements and protections needed to enable transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, to operate in Upstate New York.

The Senate Standing Committee on Insurance and the Senate Standing Committee on Transportation will be holding a Roundtable discussion at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2015, in Room 711A of the Legislative Office Building, Albany, New York to discuss and examine issues relating to transportation network companies (TNCs).  Transportation network companies provide a digital platform (an “app”) that connects those seeking transport with a vetted local driver offering rides using their personal vehicle.  This model is often referred to as “ridesharing.”

Existing transportation options alone can no longer fully accommodate growing populations, yet 80% of the seats in personal vehicles remain empty.  TNC platforms are already filling those empty seats across the country by providing additional transportation options to communities that need them most and reducing the economic burden of car ownership.

The broader benefits of ridesharing are being realized in communities where TNCs have been able to scale effectively.  Ridesharing protects consumer choice, responds to unmet market demands, supplies accessible and affordable transportation options to underserved areas, provides economic opportunities, reduces drunk driving, eases traffic congestion, curbs air pollution and provides last mile solutions to commuters seeking to utilize existing transit options.  TNCs are continuing to evolve to maximize these benefits with innovative options in the largest markets where they have been able to grow within the framework of reasonable regulation.

This roundtable will bring together stakeholders  to discuss the insurance model that has been adopted in 26 other states relative to TNCs, consumer protections that need to be considered, how TNCs should be regulated compared to the livery industry, and the balance needed to ensure that necessary safety standards are met by existing and emerging TNCs while enabling growth and innovation to fully realize the benefits that communities are demanding.

Participation is by invitation only.  Any prepared statements or materials to be submitted by participants should be sent in advance.  Written comments will also be accepted and may be sent to the attention of the Chair at 420 Capitol, Albany, NY.  In order to further publicize these hearings, please inform interested parties and organizations of the committees’ interest in hearing testimony from all sources. Individuals can also watch the event online on the New York State Senate website at the following web address: http://www.nysenate.gov/committees/insurance.  In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the legislature, in accordance with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities.  For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to legislative facilities and activities.