ORLANDO, Fla. — Currently, drivers working for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not allowed to pick up passengers from Orlando International Airport, but a new bill could change that.
Uber drivers are able to pick up passengers at some airports, like Orlando Sanford International Airport where they can as long as they have obtained a $125 permit.
But the new bill in the Florida Legislature would allow ride-sharing services to pick up people at any airport.
The bill is not without a downside, though.
It would require drivers to increase their insurance coverage and undergo multi-state criminal, sex offender and driving history background checks.
Uber driver Heather Walker would like to see the new bill pass, regardless of the stricter regulations.
“It would make it easier for us drivers,” she said. “Just to be able to pick up wherever we can.”
Some passengers would like to have Uber or Lyft as an option as well, saying the experience is generally better than taking a taxi.
“It was faster than a taxi, it was friendlier than a taxi,” passenger Tom Modic said. “It was a nicer vehicle than most taxis I’ve been in.”
A new ride-sharing bill could change regulations for Florida @Uber & @lyft drivers. What it means for rides from local airports @WFTV at 6. pic.twitter.com/xfSGYMIgPV
— Lauren Seabrook (@LSeabrookWFTV) February 8, 2017
Cox Media Group
