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Podcasts Take Two
Utilities commission says it will regulate app-based ridesharing services like Uber, Lyft
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Aug 1, 2013
Listen • 3:20
Utilities commission says it will regulate app-based ridesharing services like Uber, Lyft
The CPUC declared Tuesday that it should have jurisdiction over and regulate companies that use mobile apps to help people find a ride.
Peter Faris, shown here in Washington, D.C. in February 2013, is an independent driver who works with Uber.
Peter Faris, shown here in Washington, D.C. in February 2013, is an independent driver who works with Uber, a technology firm which has created a mobile app that allows consumers to use their device to request a nearby taxi or limousine. The L.A. Department of Transportation on Monday sent Uber and two similar companies cease-and-desist letters.
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PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images
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The CPUC declared Tuesday that it should have jurisdiction over and regulate companies that use mobile apps to help people find a ride.

You can't get a parking ticket if you don't drive, and one way to avoid that here in southern California is to take advantage of ride-shares companies like Sidecar, Lyft and Uber.

These internet-based services connect drivers with riders and their popularity has been growing fast, much to the chagrin of taxi drivers. The city of L.A. has tried to regulate them but on Tuesday, the California Public Utilities Commission — or PUC — said back off.

KPCC's Brian Watt reports that decision could put the services in the mainstream.