PUC Puts Lyft and Uber In Park
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Lyft and Uber, two app-based transportation services, have been ordered to cease and desist their services in Pittsburgh by the state's Public Utility Commission.
The Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement filed complaints against Lyft, Inc., and Uber Technologies, Inc. in June, saying that the companies did not have proper authority from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to provide paid transportation services.
Lyft and Uber are both national ride-sharing services that use mobile apps to connect customers to drivers.
Earlier this year, an undercover police officer used the app to solicit rides and issued citations to the drivers who did not have proper authority to provide transportation for compensation.
The BIE was also concerned that the non-professional drivers employed by Lyft and Uber use their personal vehicles for commercial transportation, and their vehicles may not comply with safety standards.
The PUC and BIE cite public safety as the main concern in the complaints filed.
The companies have at least one strong ally, however.
Mayor Bill Peduto tweeted, "We will not let PUC shut down innovation without a battle. Ride sharing is worldwide. Technology does not stand still. PA PUC must change."
Lyft and Uber have seven days to file briefs to the Commission.
Uber says that despite the order, they will continue to operate in Pittsburgh.
RELATED LINKS
PUC Tries To Halt Operations Of Uber & Lyft (6/26/2014)
PUC Cites Local Drivers In Lyft's Ride-Sharing Program (4/25/2014)
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