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Gov. Corbett Expresses His Support for Lyft, Uber in Pennsylvania

Both Uber and Lyft have tangled with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission over license and insurance matters since arriving in Pittsburgh earlier this year.

Gov. Tom Corbett today came out in support of upcoming legislation in the state House and Senate aimed at formalizing the rules around ride-share companies like Lyft and Uber.

Mr. Corbett wrote letters to Rep. Robert Godshall, chairman of the House Consumer Affairs committee, and Sen. Robert Tomlinson, chairman of the Senate consumer protection and professional licensure committee.

"The evolution of technology and modern transportation systems can, at times, outpace the existing statutory framework which governs their operation in communities across the Commonwealth," the governor wrote in each letter. "At the same time, this evolution provides opportunities to better serve the citizens of Pennsylvania through enhanced competition, increased service options and improved efficiencies. That appears to be the case here, as the Public Utility Commission works to both provide avenues for new operators ... while at the same time fulfilling its crucial obligation to protect and safeguard the interests of consumers."

Lyft and Uber are San Francisco-based ride sharing companies that connect drivers in their own cars with passengers via smartphone apps. They moved into Pittsburgh earlier this year, and have tangled with the Public Utility Commission over license and insurance matters ever since. Both are currently operating in Allegheny County under temporary provision, and are seeking permanent PUC licensure as experimental transportation companies.

Sen. Wayne Fontana, D-Brookline has proposed a bill in the Senate which would create a new category of service known as a transportation network company, to oversee and regulate ride share companies. Rep. Mark Mustio, R-Moon and Rep. Thomas Killion, R-Delaware-Chester have each proposed similar bills in the House.

The Legislature is expected to consider the bills when it returns to session Sept. 15.

©2014 the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette