British Columbia’s NDP government has introduced legislation that aims to have ride-hailing companies operating across the province by fall of 2019.
If passed, the legislation will allow the Passenger Transportation Board to approve applications and set out the regulations for ride-hailing vehicles.
The legislative bill will also limit the power of municipalities to restrict aspects like fare structure, as well as supply and operating areas for ride-hailing services.
"British Columbians absolutely want more options and flexibility in how they get around, but with checks in place to make sure their ride is a safe one," said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
The BC NDP originally pledged to bring ride-hailing to the province by the end of 2017 and there was some suggestion that the service would be available this year.
According to the government, the delay is largely due to ICBC needing to develop insurance packages and a process for doing background checks on drivers.
Potential Uber or Lyft drivers will be required to maintain a Class 4 passenger license and undergo mandatory criminal checks.
Vancouver is currently the largest city in North America without a ride-hailing service.
