Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may soon be making an appearance in New Brunswick.
New legislation introduced in the legislature Wednesday would allow ride-sharing services to operate in the province.
The proposed legislation defines ride-sharing and sets the provincial standard for drivers and vehicles.
But local governments would still need to create bylaws to allow ride-sharing services to operate in their communities.
Public Safety Minister Ted Flemming said ride-sharing will provide New Brunswickers more choices and flexibility in accessing transportation.
“The legislation we have brought forth will provide for a fair, safe and comprehensive ride-sharing system that could benefit communities in every part of the province,” Flemming said in a news release.
Under the proposed amendments, ride-share drivers would have to undergo a driving record check, upgrade to a Class 4 licence, and have a clean driver’s abstract.
Vehicles used for ride-share services would require an annual inspection.
Local governments can also set out other requirements in their local bylaw, such as criminal record checks and insurance requirements.