Limit the number of "ride sharing" cars. 

The oversupply of cars-for-hire in California threatens the taxi industry, which provides a valuable public service. Allowing an unlimited number of “ride sharing” cars to flood city streets worsens traffic congestion, pollutes the atmosphere, and results in stressed-out drivers who are a threat to public safety. And the public will suffer if taxi companies go out of business as a result.

Taxis enable residents and visitors to get a ride without using a smartphone app. Cities set the fare (which is constant, so passengers know what to expect), screen drivers’ criminal and driving records, test their knowledge of the city where they work, and require drivers to carry insurance to protect passengers. As does San Francisco, cities can also require taxis to use alternative energy and provide subsidized rides to seniors and disabled. Previously, drivers would stick with driving and become knowledgeable “ambassadors of tourism.”

Limiting the number of cars-for-hire would enable all drivers, including “ride sharing” drivers, to make a decent living, which is currently impossible, and result in better public service.

Therefore, as a California resident, I urge you to either limit the number of “ride sharing” cars in each city or allow cities to do so.