This motion is a discussion that will lead to a motion to direct the County Attorney to draft a revised Ordinance to continuously improve the quality of the vehicle for hire experience in Broward County.
The Broward County Environmental and Consumer Protection Division has observed two major regulatory challenges in the vehicle-for-hire community: illegal ride solicitation and repeat violators. Currently, persons who illegally solicit passengers for motor carrier services at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (“Airport”) are subject to an initial fine of only $250, and a maximum fine of $500 for each repeat violation. Section 162.09, Florida Statutes, permits Broward County to elect to set fines for violations of County ordinances of up to $1,000 for an initial violation and up to $5,000 for each repeat violation. Increasing the fines for operating at the Airport in violation of County Code would create an effective deterrent to illegal ride solicitation.
Currently, all motor carriers operating at the Airport, except transportation network companies, are required to utilize the Airport’s Automatic Vehicle ID (AVI) system to track trips in order to collect the appropriate fee. Transportation network companies are permitted to self-report their trips, subject to a third party or County audit. Transportation network company vehicles should be required to use the Airport’s AVI system so that the Airport can accurately collect the appropriate fee.
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