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Ken McClure testifies at the state level on behalf of transportation network company regulations.
Ken McClure testifies at the state level on behalf of transportation network company regulations.

Springfield councilman testifies on state ‘Uber’ bill

Posted online
Springfield Mayor Pro Tem Ken McClure this week represented the city “as a model for statewide regulations” on transportation network companies.

Following City Council’s passage in November of a bill that paved the way for Uber, a spokesman for the company said Springfield’s regulations should serve as a model for legislation on the state level.

Yesterday, McClure testified before a Missouri House General Laws Committee meeting in support of House Bill 130, which is designed to regulate TNCs like Uber and Lyft statewide. Rep. Kirk Mathews, R-Pacific, has proposed the legislation, according to a news release.

If approved, the bill would become effective Aug. 28. Under the proposal, TNCs would need to apply for an annual permit from the Missouri Department of Revenue and maintain required insurance coverage. Additionally, TNCs would be required to conduct local and national criminal background checks for each driver, make sure all vehicles meet inspection requirements and not discriminate against customers, according to the bill summary.

The bill’s language is similar to legislation passed by Springfield council members. Companies like Uber must be issued permits, cover insurance, conduct background checks and only hire drivers at least 18 years old.

“We’re delighted that Springfield can serve as a model in Missouri in terms of allowing transportation companies, like Uber, to operate successfully. If we want to attract and keep young professionals, we need our community to support new technology and advances like this,” McClure said in the release. “I appreciate the work of my colleagues on council and city staff to come up with legislation that works for all parties.”

Following the passage of the bill, Uber launched its service in Springfield on Nov. 17.

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