CITY OF SEATTLE
ORDINANCE __________________
COUNCIL BILL __________________
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AN ORDINANCE relating to taxicab, transportation network company, and for-hire vehicle drivers; amending Section 6.310.110 of the Seattle Municipal Code; adding a new Section 6.310.735 to the Seattle Municipal Code; and authorizing the election of driver representatives.
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WHEREAS, the state of Washington, in Revised Code of Washington 46.72.001 and 81.72.200, has authorized political subdivisions of the state to regulate for-hire drivers and for-hire transportation services without facing liability under federal antitrust laws; and
WHEREAS, allowing taxicab, transportation network company, and for-hire vehicle drivers ("for-hire drivers") to modify specific agreements collectively with the entities that hire, direct, arrange, or manage their work will better ensure that they can perform their services in a safe, reliable, stable, cost-effective, and economically viable manner and thereby promote the welfare of the people; and
WHEREAS, the new responsibilities for the Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) contemplated in this legislation will require additional resources; and
WHEREAS, the Director of FAS has authority to adjust fees to cover the cost of the regulatory functions FAS performs on behalf of the public; and
WHEREAS, should this legislation go into effect, the Director may exercise that authority to raise additional revenue through fees to cover the additional costs; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF SEATTLE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Findings
A. In order to protect the public health, safety and welfare, The City of Seattle is granted express authority to regulate for-hire and taxicab transportation services pursuant to Chapters 46.72 and 81.72 RCW. This authority includes regulating entry, requiring a license, controlling rates, establishing safety requirements, and any other requirement to ensure safe and reliable...
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