Internet Explorer 11 is not supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

For Now, Uber and Lyft Are Legal in Portland

Amid angry jeers from Portland taxi drivers, the City Council voted 3-2 Tuesday night to allow ride-hailing companies to operate in the city as part of a 120-day pilot program.

Uber and Lyft just got the green light in Portland.

 

Amid angry jeers from Portland taxi drivers, the City Council voted 3-2 Tuesday night to allow ride-hailing companies to operate in the city as part of a 120-day pilot program.

Commissioners Amanda Fritz and Nick Fish voted against the proposal, saying they had concerns about minimum insurance coverage and Uber's controversial business practices.

"I'm no apologist for the (Portland) taxi industry, which I think would benefit from competition and improvements to service," Fish said.

At the same time, Fish said he couldn't bring himself to support or trust Uber after it defiantly started operating illegally in the city in December.

 

 

Daniel Luzer is GOVERNING's news editor.
Special Projects