Tampa Allows Free NEV Service To Return

The Hillsborough County Public Transportation Commission voted to rescind their earlier decision that effectively stopped NEVs from being offered for free transportation.  The vehicles charged no fee for short rides in the downtown area but sold advertising and allowed drivers to accept tips.  The service angered local taxi drivers and the commission passed an earlier ruling halting the service.  There is some disagreement over the commission’s right to regulate the vehicles since they may not technically be taxis since they are free.  The commission is trying to obtain a legal ruling in that regard, and establish some regulatory procedures.  While that process moves forward, they are asking NEV operators to voluntarily follow some safety and insurance guidelines.  Learn more:  Tampabay.com