May 17, 2017

PIACT lauds House passage of amended TNC bill that removes coverage gaps

HARTFORD, Conn.—The Professional Insurance Agents of Connecticut commends the state House for passing H.B.7126, which has been amended to remove insurance coverage gaps that existed in the original bill.

The amended bill passed the House last Thursday and has been sent to the Senate for consideration. PIACT President Kenneth A. Distel offered testimony last month supporting legislation that would create a comprehensive regulatory regime for transportation network companies, but cautioned the Senate Insurance & Real Estate Committee that the lack of definitions in the bill created insurance coverage gaps (e.g., when a taxi is picking up street hails or being dispatched via radio).

To address the concerns raised by PIACT and other organizations, the amended bill would now create regulations to require any taxi owner or operator to use tiered rates when posting rates: on its website and online-enabled application; and in the taxi in a location visible to the passenger. The tiered-rating system will close the gaps created in the original legislation.

"PIACT applauds the swift action the House took to amend the bill and level the playing field between taxicabs and TNCs across the state," said Distel. "Coverage gaps can cause problems if accidents occur. We urge the Senate to pass the amended bill with its tiered-rating system, which would close these gaps and make the ride-hailing vehicles and taxicabs safer for everyone involved."

PIACT is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout the state.

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