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2024 Vancouver Cruise Ship Schedule for Transportation Network Services and Taxi Companies

Wed, 03/27/2024 - 01:00

Transportation Network Service (TNS) operators are reminded to review the terms and conditions (T&C) of their licence as the 2024 cruise ship season begins in Vancouver. All TNS licensees in Region 1 are to abide by the designated Geo-Fencing T&C (listed below), which prevents drivers from entering, or picking up passengers at Canada Place cruise ship terminal and, the adjacent block on cruise ship days. While subject to change, the cruise ship schedule, is listed below:

2024 Cruise Ship Days (07:00 to 19:00):

April 30
May 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 22, 25, 26, 27
June 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30
July 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24, 27, 28, 31
August 1, 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 28, 30, 31
September 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21, 22, 25, 28, 29
October 4

Taxi companies in the City of Vancouver, including those previously approved for “Peak Period” operations, should take note of the 2024 cruise ship dates and anticipate events such as the Celebration of Lights.

The Board will continue its efforts to ensure that the 2024 cruise ship schedule is up to date. If there are any future changes or amendments, this advisory will be updated accordingly.

Geo-fencing

TNSs operating in the City of Vancouver (in Region 1) must geo-fence off the areas listed below in (a) to (c) on cruise ship days to prevent drivers from picking up passengers
(a) Canada Place Way between Howe Street and Burrard Street;
(b) Howe Street between Canada Place Way and Cordova Street; and,
(c) Burrard Street between Canada Place Way and Cordova Street.
The Board will post a link to the city’s cruise ship schedule, when available, in March or April of any year.

Update on climate change programs and initiatives

Wed, 03/06/2024 - 01:00

The scale of the climate emergency demands urgent action. Responding to climate change is a significant priority for the B.C. government.

The Climate Change Accountability Act and 2021 Ministerial Order set the Province’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reductions target at 27-32% for the transportation sector by 2030. CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 sets out the pathways to achieve this target.

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) continues to review its policies and procedures to ensure they support the government’s climate change programs and initiatives. The following initiatives are a few of those currently being undertaken by the Province and the Board.

Congestion study

The Board has commissioned a traffic congestion study in selected areas of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, under section 7(1) of the Passenger Transportation Act.

The study is being undertaken to address concerns over the potential impact of passenger transportation on road congestion, particularly in high-density urban areas like Vancouver. The study is being conducted throughout 2024, with a report anticipated in early 2025.

The Board industry advisory of August 16, 2023 provides further details.

Eco-friendly taxis

The Board’s eco-friendly taxi policy is a key element of the Board’s approach to address climate change priorities.

Eco-friendly taxis are already used in many parts of B.C., and this policy is intended to encourage and support increased use of these vehicles throughout the province.

You can read how the Board applies criteria for designating taxis as eco-friendly in the Policy Manual.

Clean Transportation Action Plan (CTAP)

The Clean Transportation Action Plan (CTAP) is a key commitment made by the B.C. government under its CleanBC Roadmap. The purpose of CTAP is to identify the next set of actions to achieve the 27-32% reduction in reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector by 2030.

CTAP is intended to take action in five areas:

reducing vehicle kilometers traveled,
shifting to more efficient modes,
increasing vehicle efficiency,
transitioning the market to zero-emission vehicles, and
transitioning to cleaner fuels.

The CTAP is anticipated to be published by summer 2024.

Rebates and incentives

There are several rebate and incentive programs available in B.C. that could help the passenger transportation industry to adopt clean transportation technology and support climate change goals. The Board website provides information and links to these programs.

More information

If you have questions about climate change initiatives and policy at the Board, please contact Jim Grove, Communications Officer at jim.grove@gov.bc.ca.

The Passenger Transportation Board is moving

Wed, 02/07/2024 - 13:00

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) has been advised by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure that, as of April 1, 2024, the Board will move to the Ministry of Attorney General. The move is consistent with the B.C. government’s aim to move all administrative tribunals to the Ministry of Attorney General.

Impacts of move

The Board’s role and mandate will not be changing. However, this move means that the Board Chair will report to the Attorney General rather than the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and Board staff will be affiliated with the Ministry of Attorney General.

While the Board looks forward to the opportunity to work more closely with other boards and administrative tribunals, there could be an impact, at least in the short-term, on Board operations as staff support transition to a new ministry. The Board appreciates your patience as we go through this transition.

Ongoing priorities

The Board intends to continue working on priority projects affecting the passenger transportation industry, such as:

Rates Policy project, including a review of taxi rates structures and custom taxi cost index, to help support the taxi sector as it emerges from the effects of the pandemic and undergoes market restructuring.
Taxi Camera project, including a review of current camera technology and its applicability to the passenger transportation industry.

More information

If you have questions about this move, please contact Jim Grove, Communications Officer at jim.grove@gov.bc.ca.

Board decision on new taxi rates structures

Wed, 01/17/2024 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Act allows the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) to set rates “for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges” and to make rules respecting rates (sections 7(1)(f-g)).

In April 2022, the Board made it a priority to undertake a process of systemic decisions on rates. This was done in anticipation of market restructuring and other issues as the passenger transportation industry emerged from COVID-19. One such issue was a significant driver shortage impacting taxi licensees, and a need for companies to improve financial terms for drivers.

Accordingly, the Board conducted an extensive review of existing taxi rates structures across the province for more than a year during 2022-23. During its review, the Board consulted with taxi licensees and operators and collected feedback on potential changes to taxi rates structures.

Board decision on taxi rates structures

After more than a year of research and consultation with taxi licensees, the Board decided in December 2023:

to eliminate common rates rules (CRR) in regions where they are in effect, and replace these with standardized rates.
in regions where CRR are not in effect, to establish regional rates bands.

The Board’s systemic decisions on rates, including the taxi rates structure and custom taxi cost index, will provide the taxi sector with more support to respond to market restructuring and other inflationary pressures.

Timeline for implementation

The timeline for implementing these changes has not yet been determined and it is likely to take many months. Current rates structures will remain in effect until that time.

Information on implementing the new rates structures will be provided in the coming months, and the Board will work with the taxi sector in 2024 to ensure effective implementation.

More information

If you would like more details about the new taxi rates structures, you will find these information sheets helpful:

If you would like any further clarification, please contact Jim Grove, Communications Officer at jim.grove@gov.bc.ca.

Notice of Terms and Conditions Update

Thu, 01/04/2024 - 13:00

The HTML version of the document displayed below for your convenience may contain typographical and formatting errors. The PDF version(150 KB) is considered the true copy.

Notice of Terms and Conditions Update to the following licensees:

Transportation Network Services
Inter-city bus
Limousine
Other Passenger Directed Vehicles

The Passenger Transportation Board is providing notice to transportation network services, inter city bus, limousine, and other PDV licensees of changes the Board intends to make to Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) in their licences.

Introduction

What is this notice about?

Section 31 of the Passenger Transportation Act (“Act”) allows the Board to “mass update” T&Cs on licences. This is to provide notice to above licensees specifically of the need to update their T&Cs, and the reasons for those changes, and provide licensees with an opportunity to comment.

If a licensee wishes to provide comment on the proposed updates to T&Cs, your comment must be in writing and provided to the Board by Friday January 19, 2024. Please send your comment with the subject line “mass update of licences” to:ptboard@gov.bc.ca. There is no fee for making comments.

What is the “mass update” process?

Under section 31(3) of the Act, the Board may issue a direction to the Registrar, on its own initiative and in circumstances outside of the licence renewal process, to amend licences for the purposes of:

Correcting an error;
Standardizing T&Cs of all licences, or in a specified class of licences; or,
Making licences comply with amendments made to the Act or regulations.

In this case, the Board has determined that there are updates needed to licences to standardize T&Cs and make licences comply with the amendments made to the Act in 2019. In this case, the Board has determined that the following licences are a specified class of licences:

Inter-city bus (ICB);
Transportation Network Services (TNS);
Limousines; and
Other Passenger Directed Vehicles (PDVs).

Why are changes being made to licence terms and conditions?

When the Act was amended in 2019, there were certain directions provided to the Board regarding T&Cs, under sections 28 of the Act. Those requirements are detailed below. Due to resource constraints, only licences that were brought before the Board for decision after 2019 have been amended to reflect these directions. The Board is now updating the T&Cs of all licences to comply with the Act and to standardize the licence T&Cs.

Why aren’t taxi licences being amended?

A notice to taxi licensees was published on July 12, 2023, advising them of a mass update to their terms and conditions of licence. These updates are now complete. The Board is now going through the same process of “mass updating” of remaining licences, including TNS, ICB, PDVA: Limo, and PDVA: Other PDV licences.

What happens after this notice and comment process?

After considering any comments received from licensees, the Board will make a final decision on these updates. The Board will let the licensees know the outcome via the weekly Bulletin on the Board’s new website. Any direction notice would then be sent to the Registrar’s office, who would be responsible for sending out revised licences to the appropriate sector.

Proposed changes

1. Section 28(2) – specifying licence type

28(2) states that “If the Board approves an application for a licence, the Board must specify the special authorizations that should be included in the licence, if issued.”

Currently licences say “Special Authorization” at the top, but do not generally specify what kind of Special Authorization. To comply with this section of the Act, the Board would like to add a category of Special Authorization, such as “Transportation Network Services Authorization”, “Inter-City Bus Authorization” or “Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization.” As well, in the interests of clarity, the Board intends to add the sector type to the licence of PDVAs, such as “PDVA: Taxi” or “PDVA: Limousine.”

T&C Wording (specifying licence type)

Add the category of Transportation Network Authorization, Inter-city Bus Authorization or Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization to the top of the licence, below the term “Special Authorization” and above “Terms & Conditions.”
Add the “PDVA: Limousine” or “PDVA: Other PDV” sector type under the category of authorization “Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization” and above “Terms & Conditions.”

2. Section 28(3)(a) – equipment and technology – TNSA/PDVA

Section 28(3)(a) of the Act provides that the Board may establish T&Cs respecting equipment or technology that must be installed, used or carried on or in motor vehicles operated under the authorization and the inspection, testing, adjustment, display and use of that equipment or technology.

Apps TNSA & PDVA

On applications that came before the Board since 2019, the Board incorporated T&Cs for apps through supplementary T&Cs(163 KB), However, the Board is consolidating T&Cs in one place on the licence. Therefore, the app T&Cs will be placed on all TNSA & PDVA licences to standardize these T&Cs across all licensees:

TNSA T&C Wording (apps)

Applications (apps) General requirements	1. The app used for a transportation network service must: a) allow passengers to hail and pay for a single ride with the same app; b) connect drivers and passengers through its online platform; c) have geo-fencing capability; d) only connect drivers with passengers for pick up and drop off as specified in the “Originating Areas and Other Requirements” section of this licence; e) display and transmit information in English and may display and transmit the same information in other languages;
Calculating fares	f) calculate fares that account for: (i) minimum rates; (ii) distance; (iii) time; (iv) other fees and taxes that may be applicable; and (v) dynamic pricing variables that may be applicable;
W3C standards	g) transmit an electronic receipt immediately after payment is processed; h) comply with World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) standards for mobile accessibility;
Shielding driver and passenger information	i) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the driver from the passenger; j) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the passenger from the driver; k) give the app user an option to request a wheelchair accessible vehicle, if the licensee operates them;
Collecting personal health information	l) not collect or record personal health information about a passenger or the use of mobility aids without the consent of app user; m) retain, in a retrievable form, consent obtained pursuant to section 1(l) above until such consent is withdrawn or no longer required; n) protect information referred to in section 1(l) above by a password or biometric safeguard that the app user may access to see or modify the information; o) (i) allow the app user to change or delete information referred to in section 1(l) above, or (ii) provide instructions to the app user on how to have information referred to in section 1(l) above in the app changed or deleted; p) make any changes requested by passengers under section1(o) above within 14days of a request being made;
Fare estimates or upfront fares	q) provide to the passenger, before the passenger agrees to a ride, either: (i) an estimated fare, or (ii) an up-front fare that is set before the trip begins and paid at the end of the trip, subject to 1(s) below that is based on travel distance and time information available when a passenger requests a ride; r) indicate clearly to the passenger that an estimated fare pursuant to 1(q)(i) above is: (i) an estimate only; and (ii) the passenger will pay a fare at the end of the based on the actual travel time or distance, or both of the trip; s) at the end of the ride for which an up-front fare was agreed to by the passenger, calculate the up-front fare unless: (i) a change is made to the requested destination or (ii) the ride’s estimated time or distance diverge by 5% or more from the actual time or distance of travel; and (iii) the app, before the end of the ride transmits the following information to the passenger: A. notice that the up-front fare has been suspended or replaced; B. the new method and applicable rates for calculating the fare; C. contact information or an in-app channel to get more information about the change, or to dispute the change;
Information given to a passenger before the ride starts	t) transmit to the passenger before the passenger enters the vehicle: (i) the driver’s first name; (ii) the driver’s photo; (iii) the make, model, colour and BC number plate of the vehicle; (iv) a prominent notice that the above-noted information is important for passenger safety;
Information recorded when the ride is hailed	u) record at the time a vehicle and driver are hailed: (i) the time, date and location where and when the passenger is to be picked up; (ii) the destination where the passenger is to be discharged; (iii) driver’s first name, photo and a unique identifying number for the driver; and (iv) the make, model, year, colour and BC number plate of the vehicle;
Real time GPS tracking	(v) provide real-time GPS tracking and that shows the passenger the vehicle on route to the passenger and the route the vehicle follows while carrying the passenger;
Information given to a passenger at the end of the ride	w) immediately at the end of the ride provide to the passenger an electronic receipt containing: (i) the passenger’s first name; (ii) the driver’s first name; (iii) the time and date that the TNS vehicle service was arranged; (iv) the location and time where and when the passenger was picked up; (v) the location and time where and when the passenger was dropped off; (vi) fare information that includes separate line items for: A. charges for the ride; B. GST included in the fare; C. fare including GST; and D. any gratuities a passenger voluntarily paid;
Tips voluntary	x) not require a passenger to pay a gratuity;
Ratings	y) allow passengers and drivers to rate one another after a ride; z) provide passengers with information and a means of contacting the TNSA licensee through the app, by other electronic means or by phone with a number that is toll-free in BC, to: (i) address disputes; (ii) request and obtain lost items; and (iii) address other service issues or complaints; and aa) provide the passengers with the e-mail of the Passenger Transportation Branch of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and indicate that complaints made under 1(z) above which are not satisfactorily resolved may be e-mailed to the Branch.
	2. The app may give a passenger the option to receive communication by voice communication or a digital text format that is compatible with third-party accessibility apps. 3. A licensee must ensure that drivers using the app: a) only accept payment for a ride that is processed through the app that the passenger used to hail the ride; and b) do not accept payment by cash or by any method or system of payment that is separate from the app. 4.The licensee must provide the Registrar and police, for the purposes of compliance, enforcement and criminal investigations, a method to access the app and locate a driver or vehicle operating on the licensee’s online platform. 5. Apps must be compatible with Board or Branch data requirements. 6. The licensee must maintain care and control of the apps which includes: app functions, operation and performance, accuracy and reliability; 7. The Personal Information Protection Act governs personal information collected in an app.

PDVA (Limousine/PDV other) T&C Wording (apps)

Applications (apps) General requirements	1. An application (app) offered by the licensee that allows passengers to book a trip on a mobile device must: a) have geo-fencing capability; b) only connect drivers with passengers for pick up and drop off as specified in Section C (Originating Areas and Services) of this licence; c) record, before an originating trip ends, return trips requested under a licensee’s “return trip authority” term and condition and retain this recorded information in a retrievable form for 12 months; d) display and transmit information in English and may display and transmit the same information in other languages; e) give the app user an option to request a wheelchair accessible vehicle, if the licensee operates them;
Collecting personal health information	f) not collect or record personal health information about a passenger or their use of mobility aids, without the consent of the app user; g) retain, in a retrievable form, consent obtained pursuant to section 1(f) above until such consent is withdrawn or no longer required; h) protect information referred to in section 1(f) above by a password or biometric safeguard that the app user may access to see or modify the information; i) (i) allow the app user to change or delete information referred to in section 1(f) above, or (ii) provide instructions to the app user on how to have information referred to in section 1(f) above in the app changed or deleted; j) make any changes requested by the app user under section1(i) within 14 days of a request being made;
Shielding driver and passenger information	k) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the driver from the passenger; l) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the passenger from the driver;
Certain charges not allowed	m) not charge or advertise “free rides” or other transportation discounts as an incentive for persons to download the app without written approval of the Board; n) not charge a fee from a passenger for using particular payment method; o) not charge a fee for use of the app;
Taxis must keep phone dispatch	p) not replace telephone dispatch service, if the license operates a taxi service, without the approval of the Board; and,
Apps may not accept payment for fares	q) not accept payment for fares even if the app calculates fares.
	2. The app may give a passenger the option to receive communication by voice communication or a digital text format that is compatible with third-party accessibility apps. 3. The Personal Information Protection Act governs personal information collected in an app. 4. A person registering on an app or providing credit card information in an app does not establish an “active account” for the purposes of the limited reverse trip authority term and condition.

3. Section 28(3) – minimum route frequency – ICBA

Section 28(3)(b) allows the Board to establish T&Cs respecting the routes and minimum route frequencies of ICBs.

On December 31, 2023, the Board’s ICB COVID-19 policy expires and the Board’s updated Inter-City Bus Minimum Route Frequency policy takes effect with a 90-day transition period. The policy establishes active service minimums that must be adhered to replacing company specific minimum route frequencies. Therefore, the Board intends to standardize the T&Cs of all ICB licences by revoking the Temporary Suspension of Service Requirements T&Cs.

Inter-city Bus T&C Removed

Temporary Suspension of Service Requirements

Until this term and condition is revoked, the licence holder may temporarily, after providing public notice, reduce or suspend scheduled services that it normally must provide at the minimum frequencies set out in the licence.

4. Section 28(3)(c) – methods for hailing PDVA

Section 28(3)(c) allows the Board to establish T&Cs respecting the methods by which PDVA vehicles may be hailed. These methods may include: booking the motor vehicle in advance, hailing the motor vehicle from the street, hailing the motor vehicle through a dispatcher, or any other hailing method, other than hailing through the use of transportation network services. The Board restricts hailing from the street to taxi licences.

Since 2019, the Board has added new hailing language to any limousines and PDV Other that came before it. Therefore, the Board intends to update all limousine and PDV Other licences to include the same hailing language to standardize T&Cs.

Limousine & PDV Other T&C Wording (hailing)

Hailing in Originating Area

1. A trip may be arranged by:

a) booking the motor vehicle in advance;

b) hailing the motor vehicle through a dispatcher; or

c) hailing the motor vehicle through an app that does not process payment for the fare.

2. Passengers must not be hailed through a Transportation Network Service app that connects drivers with passengers who hail and pay for the services through the use of an online platform.

3. The licensee must not pick up a passenger who hails the motor vehicle from the street.

5. Section 28(4) – vehicle identifiers – TNSA, ICBA & PDVA

Section 28(4) of the Act requires the Board to establish a T&C that each motor vehicle under an authorization display, in the form and manner required by the Registrar, a vehicle identifier that is issued to the licensee by the Registrar, or authorized by the Registrar to be issued by the licensee.

Although the Board has been adding this T&C to licences that have come before the Board since 2019, all licences must contain this standardized T&C.

T&C Wording (vehicle identifiers)

Vehicle Identifiers

Each motor vehicle operated under this authorization must display, at the times and in the form and manner required by the Registrar, a vehicle identifier that is:

a) issued to the licensee by the Registrar; or

b) authorized by the Registrar to be issued by the licensee.

6. Section 28(5) – data requirements

Section 28(5) of the Act requires the Board to establish as a T&C that licensees operating under a PDVA or TNSA must provide to the Registrar any information, including personal information, and data that the Registrar or the Board may require, including, without limitation, information and data respecting (a) the motor vehicles, and the drivers of those motor vehicles, operated under the authorization, (b) the availability of the motor vehicles, at given points in time, for hailing by methods permitted under the authorization, and (c) trips taken by passengers transported in accessible passenger directed vehicles or trips taken by passengers transported in non-accessible passenger directed vehicles, or both, including (i) trip rates, (ii) wait times, (iii) pick-up times and locations, and (iv) drop-off times and locations.

The Board has included the data requirements in all T&C to TNSA licences and PDVA licences since 2019. While this requirement must be added to all TNSA and PDVA licences, it has not yet been implemented for limousines and other PDV. Therefore, at this time, limousine and other PDV sector types are not required to provide this data.

TNSA & PDVA T&C Wording (data)

Data Requirements

The licensee must provide to the Registrar any information, including personal information, and data that the Registrar or Board may require within time periods that the Registrar or Board may reasonably require, which may include, without limitation, information and data set out in section 28(5)(a) to (c) of the Passenger Transportation Act.

Updated policy for inter-city bus licensees

Fri, 11/24/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) has revised its Inter-City Bus Minimum Route Frequency Policy for inter-city bus (ICB) licensees. These revisions reflect the changed landscape following the COVID-19 pandemic. They are intended to ensure ICB operators continue to operate a basic minimum level of service while providing enhanced flexibility to adjust minimum route frequency (MRF).

Background

The Board’s established MRF policy previously required ICB operators to apply to the Board to amend the terms and conditions of licence to adjust MRF.

Since March 18, 2020, the Board has permitted ICB operators through the ICB COVID-19 Policy to temporarily reduce or suspend scheduled service to below MRF requirements in the terms and conditions of their licence without applying to the Board for a reduction of service amendment.

As the ICB COVID-19 Policy is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2023, the Board has revised the MRF policy rather than revert to the previously established MRF policy.

Highlighted changes

Under the new policy, ICB operators are no longer required to apply to the Board to reduce MRF, provided that an active level of service is maintained. ICB operators must simply maintain an active service on a Board-approved ICB route, as identified in the terms and conditions of their licence.

“Active service” means maintaining at least one scheduled service per month. In the case of seasonal operations, it means one scheduled service per month during the seasonal period identified in the terms and conditions of licence.

This update to the Board’s policy reduces regulatory burden and provides ongoing support to ICB operators as they transition from the COVID-19 pandemic. It also advances the Board’s priority of maintaining an expected level of service to the public and supporting operators who are committed to provide ongoing ICB services.

This update to the Board’s MRF policy does not change or revise any requirements in the terms and conditions of licence regarding route points on Board-approved routes.

ICB operators who intend to reduce frequency of service on a Board-approved route must provide advance notification to the public. Operators should aim to provide at least 24 hours for changes to weekly service schedules and at least two weeks for changes to monthly schedules.

Effective date

The updated MRF policy takes effect on the expiration of the ICB COVID-19 Policy on December 31, 2023. There will be a period of 90 days to transition to the updated MRF policy. The policy applies to all current and future ICB operators licensed to operate by the Board.

More information

For complete details on the new policy, ICB licensees are asked to refer to the Inter-City Bus Minimum Route Frequency Policy.

Clarification of credit card surcharge rules

Wed, 10/18/2023 - 01:00

Following consultation with industry regarding credit card surcharges, the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) has created new rules for all passenger directed vehicle (PDV) authorization and transportation network services (TNS) authorization licensees.

The new rules prohibits licensees from charging a credit card surcharge to passengers for credit card payment.

Board authority to make rules

Under section 7(1)(f) of the Act, the Board has the authority to: “approve, or set, for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges, rates to be charged by a licensee in respect of passenger directed vehicles operated under a licence … and approve any rule, practice or tariff of the licensee relating to those rates.”

Under section 7(1)(g) of the Act, the Board has the authority to “make rules respecting (i) rates that are or may be charged by a licensee, (ii) any rules or practice of a licensee relating to those rates, and (iii) any tariff of those rates.”

Systemic decision on credit card surcharges

The Board considered the topic of credit card surcharges in its December 2022 and January 2023 Board meetings. Following a motion approved by the Board, an Industry Advisory was posted on the Board’s website onJanuary 18, 2023. The Industry Advisory provided background information on credit card surcharges and invited submissions from the industry.

Following review of the submissions, the Board panel made the decision to prohibit credit card surcharges. The full reasons for decision includes discussion of the industry submissions, analysis, and the Board’s decision on credit card surcharges.

Rates Rule changes

During the implementation of this credit card surcharge decision, the Board has taken the opportunity to modernize its rules and has changed the names of the Rates Rules to:

Standard Rule for Taxi Rates
TNS Rates Rule
Limousine Rates Rule
Other PDV Rates Rule

All these Rates Rules can be found in the Board’s Rates Rules Manual. These Rates Rules are applicable to all licensees under the applicable sector type (i.e., the Limousine Rates Rule applies to limousine licensees), unless the Board has specifically exempted a licensee.

Additional Resources

Rates Rule – Standard Rule for Taxi Rates

Rates Rule – TNS Rates Rule

Rates Rule – Limousine Rates Rule

Rates Rule – Other PDV Rates Rule

Credit Card Surcharge decision

Updated rule for taxi meters

Wed, 10/18/2023 - 01:00

At the end of 2022, the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) completed a review of the Board’s taxi meter rules, policies, and procedures. The review was initiated to ensure taxi meter policy was aligned with the Passenger Transportation Act (Act), the Board’s data requirements, the evolution of meter technology, policy modernization, and rates-related policy projects.

As a result of this review, the Board has created a new Rates Rule – Taxi Meters Rule. The new rule combines the taxi meter requirements previously found in the Standard Rules for Taxicab Rates and the soft meter requirements previously found in the BC Taxi Soft Meter Rule. The standard rule was also updated and is now called the Rates Rule – Standard Rule for Taxi Rates. These rules can be found in the Rates Rules Manual on the Board’s website.

Minimal changes in the new taxi meters rule

The Board has the authority to make rules related to taxi meters under section 7(1)(g) of the Act. The Board’s review of taxi meter policies and procedures consisted of an examination of current Board rules and policies, a jurisdictional scan, research into meter technology and standards, and consultations with key stakeholders.

Following the review, only minimal changes were made to create the new Rates Rule – Taxi Meters Rule. The changes mainly involve bringing previous rules about taxi meters together into one rule with a modern format and updated terminology.

Taxi meters: an ideal future

In the future, the Board may wish to stipulate new technological requirements for taxi meters. The Board would like to see more BC taxi licensees using either smart or soft meters, with a move away from analogue meters.

The outdated technology of analogue meters makes them largely inflexible, hard to program, and difficult for taxi licensees to meet data reporting requirements.

The Board recognizes, however, that there are cost implications for taxi businesses in changing from analogue meters to either smart or soft meters.

As the industry continues to recover from the pandemic, the Board encourages all licensees to consider making this change for the long term.

Additional Resources

Rates Rule – Taxi Meters Rule

Rates Rule – Standard Rule for Taxi Rates

Taxi Meters Information

Taxi Rates webpage

Leadership Transition at the Passenger Transportation Board

Wed, 10/04/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board is pleased to announce that Baljinder Kaur Narang has been appointed as Board Chair, effective October 1, 2023.

Baljinder has served on the Passenger Transportation Board as a member since March 2019 and also serves as Vice Chair and Board member for Douglas College since November 2022.

“Over the past three years, the passenger transportation industry has experienced many changes including going through and continuing to recover from the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Baljinder said. “The industry has shown tremendous resilience and determination to always deliver a quality service to passengers. As a Board, we are committed to providing sustainable, accessible and safe passenger transportation services to all British Columbians. I am excited for the opportunity to lead a team of dedicated Board members and talented staff as we continue to build on accomplishments we have achieved so far. I also hope to build on the culture of close collaboration with the many stakeholders that help to ensure a vibrant industry.”

Baljinder replaces Carmela Allevato who served as Chair from October 1, 2020 to October 1, 2023. Carmela joined the Board as a member in November 2018 and will continue to serve as a member for a one-year term. Carmela played a pivotal role in ensuring the Board had the capacity to carry out its mandate under the Passenger Transportation Act. During her tenure, the passenger transportation industry was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the industry to date continues to recover from the pandemic.

“I would like to thank Carmela for her outstanding leadership as we navigated the implementation of changes that came about from the legislative amendments of 2018 and 2022.” Baljinder said. “Through her creativity, knowledge, and unlimited energy, she led the transformation and modernization of the Board. Also, Carmela worked determinedly with the many stakeholders to ensure the industry stayed strong through the pandemic and now as we recover from it. I am grateful for her many accomplishments in making the Board a strong, and forward-looking organization.”

Members of the Passenger Transportation Board, including the Chair, serve on a part-time basis. Appointments are made by Cabinet. Visit About the Board for more information about Baljinder Kaur Narang, members and staff.

Taxi rates request for feedback - update

Wed, 09/20/2023 - 01:00

Edit: Updated on September 20, 2023 with additional information and an extended deadline. Originally published on August 16, 2023.

In response to the changing passenger transportation landscape in BC, the Passenger Transportation Board is considering changes to the taxi rates structure across the province. The intention is that any new taxi rate structure would replace the common rates rules in applicable areas.

Two new rates structures are being considered as possibilities: Rates Bands, and Board Standardized Rates. Before making any decisions, the Board would like to receive feedback from taxi licensees with their thoughts on the potential rates structure options.

Rates structures under consideration

The Passenger Transportation Act allows the Board to set rates “for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges” and to make rules respecting rates (sections 7(1)(f-g)).

The Board is considering the following approach to determining a new taxi rates structure:

Eliminate Common Rate Rules for taxis;
Replace Common Rate Rules either with minimum and maximum rates (bands) for taxis or with rates standardized by the Board.

Currently the Board is seeking feedback on these high-level options. The Board request for feedback regarding potential changes to the taxi rates structure has details on the changes the Board is considering, the rationale for each proposed change, and guidance for providing feedback about the proposed changes.

Additional information session September 28

The Board conducted four taxi rate structure information sessions for taxi licensees from August 17-24. An extra session has been added for September 28. All taxi licensees should have received an email invitation to attend this additional session. If you have not received an invitation, please contact Jim Grove, Communications Officer, Passenger Transportation Board at jim.grove@gov.bc.ca.

Submit your feedback

Taxi licensees may wish to participate in this process. Feedback must be in writing and provided to the Board by October 13, 2023. Please send your feedback with the subject line “Proposed rates rules changes” to: ptboard@gov.bc.ca. There is no fee associated with providing feedback on this topic.

More information

Notice to Licensees Re: Potential Changes to Taxi Rates Regulation.

Board releases Annual Report 2022-2023

Wed, 09/06/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board’s Annual Report 2022-2023 is now available online. The Annual Report 2022-2023(6 MB) describes the activities of the Board during the fiscal year April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023.

Highlights

Some of the Board activities and items discussed in the Annual Report 2022-2023:

Total figures regarding Application decisions in 2022-23.
Increased applications, which suggested further recovery and greater industry confidence following COVID-19.
Deadline extension for taxis to activate the 15% increase in fleet size, authorized under the taxi modernization program.
Annual inflation increase applied to taxi fares to help licensees afford higher operating costs.
Expert staff recruited to facilitate objective, evidence-based decision-making for addressing systemic issues within the industry.
Retention of a transportation economist to provide an updated report on the economic health of the industry.
New Board website developed to provide more accessibility and transparency for interested parties and the public.

TLCI review of taxi rates

Wed, 08/23/2023 - 01:00

Board allows taxi rate increases of up to 7.3% based on rise in CPI

Taxi licensees can request a 2023 TLCI taxi rate increase of up to 7.3%. The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) is now accepting completed TLCI request forms until the request deadline of September 17, 2023.

The Board established the TLCI as an objective way to identify periodic rate increases as operating costs rise. The TLCI uses the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for BC to track annual cost changes and the Board established a threshold of 2% that must be met in order for TLCI to be made available. TLCI provides an efficient and fair way for taxi licensees to obtain periodic increases when operating costs rise as it strikes a balance between the interests of transportation operators and the consumers they serve.

In 2022, a combined 2020/2021 TLCI of 5.3% was offered. In 2022, the Board also considered CPI trending for January and February 2022 in addition to 2021. In 2023, as the Board offers its final intake of TLCI before implementation of the Board’s Custom Taxi Cost Index, the Board considered CPI BC data for the remainder of 2022 (March – December) and a portion of 2023 (January – June).

Should licensees want an increase larger than 7.3% or to request an increase outside of the TLCI process, a change of rates application must be submitted.

More info:

Notice to licensees Re: potential changes to taxi rates regulation

Wed, 08/16/2023 - 01:00

Edit: Updated on September 20, 2023 with an extended deadline.

The HTML version of the document displayed below for your convenience may contain typographical and formatting errors. The PDF version(154 KB) is considered the true copy.

The Passenger Transportation Board is requesting feedback regarding potential changes to the regulation of taxi rates in BC.

Introduction

What is this notice about?

The Passenger Transportation Act (“Act”) allows the Board to set rates “for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges” and to make rules respecting rates (sections 7(1)(f-g)).

The Board is considering enacting rates rules regarding the following:

Eliminating Common Rate Rules for taxis;
Replacing Common Rate Rules either with minimum and maximum rates (bands) for taxis or with rates standardized by the Board.

Currently the Board is seeking feedback on these high-level options. This notice describes the changes the Board is considering, the rationale for each proposed change, and guidance for providing feedback about the changes.

The rates change options the Board is considering could impact all existing and future taxi licensees. These changes will not directly impact other passenger directed vehicles, TNS, limousines, or inter-city bus licensees.

All potentially affected licensees may participate in this process. Feedback must be in writing and provided to the Board by October 13, 2023. Please send your feedback with the subject line “Proposed rates rules changes” to ptboard@gov.bc.ca. There is no fee associated with providing feedback on this topic.

Why is the Board looking at rates?

With the introduction of TNS (“ride-hailing”) to BC in 2019, the passenger transportation landscape has fundamentally changed. The industry is now a more competitive environment. These changes have raised issues regarding the Board’s regulatory framework for rates. The Board is seeking ways to be more proactively responsive to market changes.

The Board needs to align its rates rules and policy with the 2019 amendments to the Act, which expanded the Board’s role as an economic regulator for the industry. The Board is expected to be regulating the passenger transportation industry in the public’s interest.

Rates are an important policy tool for the Board. Rates rules can be used to address market conditions and balance competition, sustainability, and affordability to meet public need for services. Rates are the strongest tool the Board has to positively influence the industry and help businesses thrive. The industry has changed since the time the current rates structure was created and it needs to be reviewed for the current market.

The Board considers several areas when it comes to making decisions that impact the entire passenger transportation system, or “systemic decisions”:

Legislation and mandate: the requirements of the Act, the common law, Select Standing Committee (SSC) recommendations, etc.;
Administrative costs and complexity: administrative costs for industry, implementation costs, and Board resources to maintain the rates structures; and
Key values the Board wishes to promote.

What are the Board's guiding principles?

In evaluating its role in regulating the passenger transportation industry, the Board has established certain strategic priorities and seeks to balance the following key values regarding rates:

The Board seeks to set rates that will be affordable to as many consumers as possible.
The Board’s rates should maximize service quality and preserve public safety.
The Board’s rates rules should provide the flexibility necessary for the industry to embrace innovation and competition.
The Board seeks to set rates that will be sustainable for passenger transportation sectors and motivate sufficient supply to meet public need.
The Board’s rules will form part of an equitable regulatory framework in which passenger transportation sectors can thrive and meet demand, considering different business models.

More information regarding the Board’s key values can be found in the Strategic Plan(4 MB).

Where are we in this process?

In October 2022, the Board sent a letter to all BC taxi and TNS licensees inviting their input, feedback, concerns, and recommendations for the Board’s rate policies and structures. The information received from industry was incorporated into the Board’s subsequent work on rates policy, along with research on other jurisdictions and economic analysis.
In March 2023, the Board voted to consider changes to the way rates for passenger transportation are regulated in BC. The Board directed staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.
In April 2023, the Board sent a letter to all BC Taxi and TNS licensees inviting their input and feedback on the changes being considered by the Board.
In June 2023, the Board voted to return to the industry for further feedback on the changes being considered regarding taxi rates.
In August 2023, the Board is conducting information sessions for taxi licensees to discuss the taxi rates structure options.
This notice provides guidance for licensees providing written feedback.

How can feedback be given?

The Board encourages taxi licensees to respond to these proposed changes. All feedback must be received by October 13, 2023.

Participants may address as many proposed changes as they wish, providing as much information they can to support their feedback. Licensees may wish to consider the following questions in response to each proposed change:

What is your reaction to these proposed changes?
If Common Rates Rules are eliminated, which do you prefer: Rates Bands, or Board Standardized Rates?
How do you think the proposed changes might affect your business?
Are there issues or concerns you think the Board should consider before deciding to implement these changes?
Do you have any other information that will help the Board make an informed, evidence-based decision about these proposed changes?

Information on current Board rules, policies, and procedures can be found at the Board’s website: https://www.ptboard.bc.ca/.

What are the next steps after this?

After viewing your written feedback and relevant information, the Board will consider making a systemic decision regarding taxi rates. The Board’s decisions could create new rates rules applicable to the taxi sector.

Please remember that the Board’s decisions will indicate the Board’s general direction for a taxi rates structure. The Board will then prepare for implementation, which will require extensive work. The implementation process may include further consultation (public, licensees, or experts), data analysis, economic modelling, phased starts, etc.

Each option will have different implementation requirements and timelines. The Board commits to providing plenty of notice and guidance to affected licensees before any changes occur.

Elimination of all Common Rates Rules

The Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to eliminate the eight Common Rate Rules and implement Rate Bands, and direct staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

Common Rates Rules define areas in which all taxi licensees have the same metered rates. There are currently eight Common Rate Rules (CRR) areas in BC with the following features:

All rates (flag, distance, and waiting) are the same between all licensees under a particular CRR area;
New licensees are generally required to comply with the CRR in their area; and,
A majority (51%) of licensees (or approved vehicles in the case of Vancouver or Fraser Valley) is required to allow any licensee within the CRR area to submit a rate change application.

The Board is considering eliminating the eight current Common Rates Rules*. With this change, the rates of taxi licensees currently under CRR could become more independent from other licensees’ rates in the area.

* Part II: Flat Fare Zone Rates (YVR) and Part III: Flat Fare Zone Rates (Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal) included in the Greater Vancouver Common Rates Rules would be upheld and moved to an independent rule.

The Board has an expanded mandate to regulate the passenger transportation industry using more objective, evidence-based decision-making. Through the data submission requirements, the Board has access to detailed industry-wide information that can be used to inform systemic decisions.

Common Rates Rules were established during a time in which TNS did not exist in BC and taxis competed only with other taxis. In that time, the CRRs were beneficial for both the taxi sector and the public. However, the introduction of TNS has fundamentally changed the passenger transportation landscape. The process of changing rates under the Common Rates Rules relies on the intervention of licensees and delays caused by the requirement of majority submissions are not efficient. Therefore, the Board is considering eliminating CRR in favour of a more agile approach to support sector sustainability in the current competitive market.

The Common Rates Rules would be replaced by a new taxi rate structure—the two directions the Board is considering is outlined in the following section. However, the removal of the CRR is an independent decision. If the Board proceeds with this option, it will consider how best to implement the elimination of CRR.

Establishing a replacement taxi rates structure

Taxi rates in BC are usually based on an initial flag rate, a time/distance rate, and a waiting time rate. Such rates have not been permitted to change without the approval of a change of rate application by the Board. This is consistent with the taxi business model and its role as a predictable, stable “essential service” for the public.

With access to industry data, the Board can now directly regulate taxi rates in a more objective, evidence-based manner. The Board can consider system-wide implications of rates decisions on the profitability and long-term sustainability of the industry, as well as affordability for the public. The Board would control any taxi rate structure based on data and these considerations.

A. Option #1: rates bands

The Board is considering a taxi rate structure in which the Board establishes minimum and maximum taxi meter rates (for flag, distance, and waiting). The range within the minimum and maximum is called the “Rate Band”.

Initially, the Rate Band would be determined by the Board based on data analysis, modelling, and consultation. Taxi licensees would select their rate within the band and notify the Board of their selection through a streamlined process.

In this structure, taxi licensees wishing to change their rate in the future to an amount within the approved Rate Band for their area would simply notify the Board rather than go through a full application process. Taxi licensees wishing to charge a rate that falls outside of the approved Rate Band for their area would submit a rate change application with evidence to justify the exception.

Rates Bands provide a more responsive process to making adjustments to address market changes. Issues detected by Board monitoring of data analysis and modelling and/or licensees can be evaluated and, if intervention is determined to be required, adjustments to be band can be made (with notice) outside the application process. Any cost-of-living increase, such as the custom Taxi Cost Index, would be streamlined by applying it directly to the band, increasing the minimum and maximum.

See the following visual representation of a Rate Band and how it may affect the requirement for rate change applications. [Link to image]

Through this change, taxi licensees could make rates choices based on their knowledge of the industry, their unique business situation, and changing market conditions.

The Board has heard from some of the taxi sector that flexibility is important for their business to compete in the changing passenger transportation industry. The Board wants to encourage healthy competition in the industry while ensuring that the public can access predictable and affordable passenger transportation options.

The Board also recognizes that business owners know their own business best and can use this knowledge to choose rates that work well for them, within an established range. By easing the administrative burden on the Board and taxi licensees to adjust rates, the Board seeks to move towards an equitable regulatory framework and greater efficiency.

If the Board proceeds with this option, then it would examine how best to establish Rates Bands for the taxi sector. For example, the Rates Bands could be established on a provincial, regional, or municipal level or based on population density or some other geographic factor. The Board’s implementation would depend on its analysis of the data.

The Board may also consider how to ensure predictability and transparency for the public. For example, the Board may set limits to the frequency at which a taxi business can change their rates within their Rate Band (e.g., every 6 months) and set requirements around clearly posting rates for the public.

The specific Rates Bands would likely be approved by the Board following data analysis and economic research. Again, the Board would provide plenty of notice to the taxi sector.

The Board knows that moving to a Rates Bands scheme would reduce price consistency as a market niche for taxis. Therefore, the Board may consider initially setting narrow Rates Bands to allow industry and the public an adjustment period, with monitoring, review, and potentially a phased approach to setting Rates Bands on a regional or local level over time.

B. Option #2: Board standardized rates

The Board is considering a taxi rate structure in which the Board establishes identical taxi meter rates for licensees in a particular area. Under this structure, taxi rates are generally no longer proposed by applicants but determined by the Board based on data analysis, modelling, and consultation. Rates would be set by the Board, who can consider broader implications on the profitability and long-term sustainability of the industry.

As not all taxi businesses are the same, it is likely that the Board Standardized Rate would be based on a sample average, reasonably well-run taxi business. The goal being to set a rate that promotes sustainability through a reasonable rate of return, balanced with affordability.

Board Standardized Rates provide a more responsive process to making adjustments to address market changes. Issues detected by Board monitoring of data analysis and modelling and/or licensees can be evaluated and, if intervention is determined to be required, adjustments to the rate can be made (with notice) outside the application process. Any cost-of-living increase, such as the custom Taxi Cost Index, would be applied directly to the standard rate. This process reduces the administrative burden to licensees and the Board over the current system as no applications are required.

If the Board proceeds with this option, it will determine how best to establish the areas across which rates will be standardized. For example, there could be one rate for the province, or rates set for a regional district or by population density. The Board’s implementation would depend on its analysis of the data.

Taxi licensees wishing to charge a rate different from the Board Standardized Rate for their area would continue to be permitted to submit a rate change application with evidence to justify the exception. Licensees wishing to see a change to the taxi rates for the area overall (including for other licensees) would be able to bring forth issues to the Board at any time for consideration.

The Board has heard from some licensees that price consistency is important for their business in the competitive passenger transportation market. Board Standardized Rates maximize the predictability and price consistency of taxi rates. For those licensees currently included in a Common Rates Rules area, this structure will maintain price consistency as a market niche and would introduce minimal change for passengers.

If the Board proceeds with this option, it will examine how to best proceed in areas without Common Rates Rules. As taxi businesses in these areas currently compete on price, the implementation of a Board Standardized Rate would remove this competition.

The Board recognizes that, in this structure, individual licensees would not have the flexibility to respond to changing market conditions independently. However, the Board would have the capacity to proactively identify industry-wide changes and adjust taxi rates in a streamlined manner. This would reduce overall reaction time by bypassing the time necessary for a rates application’s submission process.

Traffic congestion study to begin in Lower Mainland

Wed, 08/16/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board has passed a motion to conduct a traffic congestion study in selected areas of the Lower Mainland, under section 7(1) of the Passenger Transportation Act.

The study is being undertaken as a result of concern over the potential impact of passenger transportation on road congestion, particularly in high-density urban areas like Vancouver.

Due to the need to obtain multiple samples and seasonal variations in passenger transportation, the study will be conducted over the next year, with a report anticipated in early 2025. The Board has contracted Acuere Consulting Inc. to undertake this study.

Why a congestion study?

Climate change issues are a significant priority for the government and the Board. The scale of the climate emergency demands urgent action by everyone.

Traffic congestion in the passenger transportation industry has been raised as a concern due to its potential impacts on climate change through greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In view of this concern, the Board has initiated this study to assess congestion in high traffic corridors in the Lower Mainland.

The Board further intends to undertake a full review of its regulation of the passenger transportation industry in regard to climate change. Earlier this year, the Board examined relevant legislation and programs, and it published an industry advisory in May 2023 to provide the industry with information on how they could voluntarily reduce GHG emissions.

Informing systemic decisions

The Board requires an independent and credentialed consultant to collect data on and analyze the impact of passenger transportation on congestion, particularly as it pertains to any impacts of taxi and ride-hailing. For this reason, the Board has contracted Acuere Consulting Inc. to conduct the study.

Update report on impacts of Covid-19 on BC Passenger Transportation Industry

Wed, 08/09/2023 - 01:00

In 2021, the Passenger Transportation Board launched an investigation to better understand the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and its effects on the passenger transportation industry in BC. The results were published in Economic Effects of Covid-19 on the BC Passenger Transportation Industry(3 MB) in September 2021.

Following the 2021 report, the Board determined that there was a need to conduct a follow-up study to understand the current state of pandemic recovery.

The follow-up study, 2023 Update: Economic Effects of Covid-19 on the BC Passenger Transportation Industry(5 MB), is available today and presents data and analysis conducted by professional economist Hara Associates.

Current data for evidence-based decisions

To fulfil the Board’s mandate under the Passenger Transportation Act and ensure the industry’s long-term well-being, the Board must have access to current economic data and analysis for rendering objective evidence-based decisions.

This follow-up investigation on the recovery of BC’s passenger transportation industry from the Covid-19 pandemic was conducted pursuant to section 7(1) of the Act. As with the first study published in September 2021, the Board retained the services of Hara Associates, a professional economist, to conduct this latest investigation.

Key findings of this report

This 2023 study investigates the impact of Covid-19 on monthly trip volumes for taxis and Transportation Network Services (TNS). Also investigated are the consequences on operating costs and market share for these sectors.

The 2023 study was supported by data collected from participating licensees and combined with data filed with the Data Warehouse of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. Analysis included broader economic factors relevant to the passenger transportation industry, such as unemployment rates, airport passenger volumes, and hotel occupancy.

The Board encourages taxi and TNS licensees to review this 2023 update report, as it provides additional information and analysis, which the Board may consider in making systemic decisions related to these sectors.

Taxi Rates - Cost of Living Adjustment 2023

Wed, 08/02/2023 - 01:00

On March 29, 2023, the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) gave notice to licensees regarding potential changes to taxi and TNS rates regulation and invited licensees to provide feedback on the considered options. Included in the considered options was #6 “Establishing a new Taxi Cost Index (TCI) to keep pace with inflation.” This option would replace the current annual scheduled review of taxi rates to address ongoing issues that impact rates, including pressures related to inflation and cost-of-living. In June 2023, the Board reviewed feedback from the taxi sector and decided to initiate the construction of a new custom TCI.

For the future, a custom Taxi Cost Index

Enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act will create a new Taxi Cost Index that calculates custom inflationary and cost-of-living increases more applicable to the taxi sector. This new TCI will consist of only relevant CPI (BC) elements and gathered sector data.

For the present, the Taxi Limousine Cost Index (TLCI) 2023

To help the Board undertake a comprehensive approach to constructing the new TCI, and to ensure the taxi sector is not unduly impacted by rising operating costs, the Board will intake a cost-of-living adjustment under the current TLCI system. Throughout this process, taxi licensees will be allowed to request a rate increase of up to 7.3% for TLCI 2023. This TLCI amount was calculated from CPI (BC) data inclusive of March 2022 (the last TLCI intake) through June 2023.

More information on this topic, including the announcement of 2023 TLCI’s intake period, will be released in the coming weeks.

Updated Materials for Public Need and Sound Economic Conditions

Wed, 07/26/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board has updated policies and guidelines on Public Need and Sound Economic Conditions criteria. These materials include a Public Need policy, Sound Economic Conditions policy, and guidelines called Demonstrating Public Need and Sound Economic Conditions.

Section 28 (1) of the Passenger Transportation Act (Act) sets out the criteria the Board must consider on an application. The first criteria (Fit, Proper and Capable) are a threshold test. The Board must first consider that an applicant is a fit and proper person and capable of providing a service before it can continue on to other criteria. If the applicant passes the threshold test, the Board will then consider whether there is a Public Need for the service and whether the application, if granted, would promote Sound Economic Conditions in the passenger transportation industry in B.C. The Public Need and Sound Economic Conditions criteria are also part of section 28(1) of the Act.

Major changes are described as follows. These new documents replace the information formerly contained in Reference Sheet #20.

Public Need

The Board considers whether there is demand for the proposed service. Secondly, the Board considers Public Need in terms of the ways passenger transportation benefits the public, including (but not limited to) the following factors: accessibility, affordability, safety, and service quality. To find out more about these factors, please review the Board’s new Public Need policy.

Sound Economic Conditions

The Board considers Sound Economic Conditions in terms of the overall passenger transportation business, rather than the interests of individual applicants, submitters, or businesses, including (but not limited to) the following factors: competition, innovation, sustainability, and variety. To find out more about these factors, please review the Board’s new Sound Economic Conditions policy.

New Guidance for Applicants on Demonstrating Public Need and Sound Economic Conditions

It is important to ensure an application for a new or amended licence has the information the Board needs for its decision. This new guidance will help applicants create the best application they can for their proposed services. While the Board will make the ultimate decision on whether to approve an application, applicants should provide the best possible indicators and justification for their service.

Similarly, the new policies and guidance will help those submitting to the Board regarding an application.

New Strategic Plan 2023-2026

Wed, 07/19/2023 - 01:00

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) has updated its three-year Strategic Plan (2023-2026)(4 MB). This Strategic Plan focuses on the following:

Positioning the Board to fulfill its expanded role and mandate.
Supporting ongoing organizational transformation.
Strengthening engagement with interest parties.
Promoting a healthy and vibrant passenger transportation industry in BC.

Updated Role and Mandate of the Board

The Board’s role and mandate has expanded as a result of the following:

Introduction of Transportation Network Services, also known as ride-hailing.
Clarification of the Board’s jurisdiction as:
- Independent decision-maker with exclusive jurisdiction over key aspects of the passenger transportation industry.
- Economic regulator expected to equitably balance sectors of the passenger transportation industry in the public interest.
- Integrator of broader policy goals into the passenger transportation framework.
Direction that the Board collect, analyze, and provide data to support objective, evidence-based decision-making.

Mission, Vision and Values

Over the past year, the Board has engaged in strategic planning to define their mission, vision, and values, in light of its expanded role and mandate. Details are listed in the Strategic Plan (2023-2026)(4 MB).

Strategic Priorities

To appropriately support the Boards expanded role and mandate the following strategic priorities have been established:

Review and modernize Board policies and procedures.
Transition to data-driven and objective evidence-based decision-making.
Special Committee review.
Revitalize engagement with industry.
Systemic decisions, notably systemic decisions on rates.

Goals

The following goals will aid in supporting the Boards expanded mandate and role to promote a healthy and vibrant passenger transportation industry.

Developing economic expertise.
Ensuring licensees are fit and proper, capable of providing their services.
Supporting environmental sustainability.
Promoting service in low-density regions.
Protecting public safety.

Notice to Taxi Licensees RE: Terms and Conditions Update

Wed, 07/12/2023 - 01:00

The HTML version of the document displayed below for your convenience may contain typographical and formatting errors. The PDF version(131 KB) is considered the true copy.

The Passenger Transportation Board is providing notice to taxi licensees of changes the Board intends to make to Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) in their licences.

INTRODUCTION

What is this notice about?

Section 31 of the Passenger Transportation Act (“Act”) allows the Board to “mass update” T&Cs on licences. This is to provide notice to taxi licensees specifically of the need to update their T&Cs, and the reasons for those changes, and provide taxi licensees with an opportunity to comment.

If a taxi licensee wishes to provide comment on the proposed updates to T&Cs, your comment must be in writing and provided to the Board by July 26, 2023. Please send your comment with the subject line “mass update of taxi licences” to: ptboard@gov.bc.ca. There is no fee associated with providing comment on this topic.

What is the “mass update” process?

Correcting an error;
Standardizing T&Cs of all licences, or in a specified class of licences; or,
Making licences comply with amendments made to the Act or regulations.

In this case, the Board has determined that there are updates needed to all taxi licences to correct an error, standardize T&Cs, and to make licences comply with the amendment made to the Act in 2019. In this case, the Board has determined that taxi licences are a specified class of licences.

Why are changes being made to taxi licence terms and conditions?

When the Act was amended in 2019, there were certain directions provided to the Board regarding T&Cs, under sections 28(2) to (5) of the Act. Those requirements are detailed below. Due to resource constraints, only licences that were brought before the Board for decision after 2019 have been amended to reflect these directions. The Board is now updating the T&Cs of all taxi licences to comply with the Act and to standardize the taxi T&Cs.

Why are only taxi licences being amended?

The directions under sections 28 of the Act apply to more than taxi licences. However, to minimize confusion and manage the workload, the Board will be tackling changes to T&Cs one sector type (class) at a time. For example, once the taxi licences have been amended, the Board will go through the same process of “mass updating” TNS licences, as applicable, as well as other sector types (like limousines).

What happens after this notice and comment process?

After considering any comments received from taxi licensees, the Board will make a final decision on these updates to taxi T&Cs. The Board will let the taxi licensees know the outcome via the weekly Bulletin on the Board’s new website. Any direction notice would then be sent to the Registrar’s office, who would be responsible for sending out revised licences to the taxi sector.

PROPOSED CHANGES

1. Section 28(2) – specifying licence type

Section 28(2) states that “If the Board approves an application for a licence, the Board must specify the special authorizations that should be included in the licence, if issued”.

Currently licences say “Special Authorization” at the top, but do not generally specify what kind of Special Authorization. To comply with this section of the Act, the Board would like to add a category of Special Authorization, such as “Inter-City Bus Authorization” or “Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization” or “Transportation Network Services Authorization”. As well, in the interests of clarity, the Board intends to add the sector type to the licence, such as “PDVA: Taxi” or “PDVA: Limousine”.

Taxi T&C Wording (specifying licence type)

Add the category of “Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization” to the top of the licence, below the term “Special Authorization” and above “Terms & Conditions”.
Add the “PDVA: Taxi” sector type under the category of authorization “Passenger Directed Vehicle Authorization” and above “Terms & Conditions”.

2. Section 28(3)(a) – equipment and technology

Apps

On taxi applications that came before the Board since 2019, the Board incorporated T&Cs for taxi apps through supplementary T&Cs, located at: https://www.ptboard.bc.ca/sites/default/files/2023-04/Supplementary_Terms_Conditions_Taxi_Other_PDVA_Apps.pdf(163 KB). However, the Board would like to begin consolidating T&Cs in one place on the licence. Therefore, the app T&Cs will be placed on all taxi licences to standardize these T&Cs across all taxi licensees.

Taxi T&C Wording (apps)

Applications (apps)

General requirements

Collecting personal health information

Shielding driver and passenger information

Certain charges
not allowed

Taxis must keep
phone dispatch

Apps may not accept payment for fares

1. An application (app) offered by the licensee that allows passengers to book a trip on a mobile device must:
a) have geo-fencing capability;
b) only connect drivers with passengers for pick up and drop off as specified in Section C (Originating Areas and Services) of this licence;
c) record, before an originating trip ends, return trips requested under a licensee’s “return trip authority” term and condition and retain this recorded information in a retrievable form for 12 months;
d) display and transmit information in English and may display and transmit the same information in other languages;
e) give the app user an option to request a wheelchair accessible vehicle, if the licensee operates them;
f) not collect or record personal health information about a passenger or their use of mobility aids, without the consent of the app user;
g) retain, in a retrievable form, consent obtained pursuant to section 1(f) above until such consent is withdrawn or no longer required;
h) protect information referred to in section 1(f) above by a password or biometric safeguard that the app user may access to see or modify the information;
i) (i) allow the app user to change or delete information referred to in section 1(f) above, or (ii) provide instructions to the app user on how to have information referred to in section 1(f) above in the app changed or deleted;
j) make any changes requested by the app user under section1(i) within 14 days of a request being made;
k) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the driver from the passenger;
l) shield the last name, phone number and email address of the passenger from the driver;
m) not charge or advertise “free rides” or other transportation discounts as an incentive for persons to download the app without written approval of the Board;
n) not charge a fee from a passenger for using particular payment method;
o) not charge a fee for use of the app;
p) not replace telephone dispatch service, if the license operates a taxi service, without the approval of the Board; and,
q) not accept payment for fares even if the app calculates fares.
2. The app may give a passenger the option to receive communication by voice communication or a digital text format that is compatible with third-party accessibility apps.
3. The Personal Information Protection Act governs personal information collected in an app.
4. A person registering on an app or providing credit card information in an app does not establish an “active account” for the purposes of the limited reverse trip authority term and condition.

Top Lights and Meters

Previously the Board utilized “express authorizations” for taxi hailing which said: Vehicles must be equipped with a meter that calculates fares on a time and distance basis. Vehicles may be equipped with a top light. Vehicles may, from within the originating areas only, pick up passengers who hail or flag the motor vehicle from the street. In this older T&C, the Board combined hailing language with top light and meter T&Cs.

Unfortunately, when the Board modified the taxi hailing language (below) on taxi applications that came before the Board since 2019, it omitted T&Cs on top lights and meters on some licences. Since section 23(2)(a) requires express authorization on the licence for top lights and meters, the Board must update all taxi licences to ensure that the top light and meter language remains. Therefore, this update is for the purpose of correcting an error.

Taxi T&C Wording (top lights and meters)

Top Lights	Motor vehicles may be equipped with a top light.
Meters	Motor vehicles must be equipped with a meter that calculates fares on a time and distance basis.

3. Section 28(3)(c) – methods for hailing

Section 28(3)(c) allows the Board to establish T&Cs respecting the methods by which motor vehicles may be hailed under the authorization, which methods may include: booking the motor vehicle in advance, hailing the motor vehicle from the street, hailing the motor vehicle through a dispatcher, or any other hailing method, other than hailing through the use of transportation network services.

Since 2019, the Board has added new hailing language to any taxi licences that came before it. Other licences have the “express authorizations” language detailed above or something older. Therefore, the Board needs to update taxi licences to include the same hailing language to standardize the T&Cs between all taxis.

Taxi T&C Wording (hailing):

Hailing in Originating Area

1. A taxi trip may be arranged by:
a) booking the motor vehicle in advance;
b) hailing the motor vehicle from the street;
c) hailing the motor vehicle through a dispatcher; or
d) hailing the motor vehicle through an app that does not process payment for the fare.
2. Passengers must not be hailed through a Transportation Network Service app that connects drivers with passengers who hail and pay for the services through the use of an online platform.

4. Section 28(4) – vehicle identifiers

Although the Board has been adding this T&C to licences that have come before the Board since 2019, all taxi licences must contain this standardized T&C.

Taxi T&C Wording (vehicle identifiers)

Vehicle Identifiers

Each motor vehicle operated under this authorization must display, at the times and in the form and manner required by the Registrar, a vehicle identifier that is:
a) issued to the licensee by the Registrar; or
b) authorized by the Registrar to be issued by the licensee.

5. Section 28(5) – data requirements

Section 28(5) of the Act requires the Board to establish as a T&C that licensees must provide to the Registrar any information, including personal information, and data that the Registrar or the Board may require, including, without limitation, information and data respecting (a) the motor vehicles, and the drivers of those motor vehicles, operated under the authorization, (b) the availability of the motor vehicles, at given points in time, for hailing by methods permitted under the authorization, and (c) trips taken by passengers transported in accessible passenger directed vehicles or trips taken by passengers transported in non-accessible passenger directed vehicles, or both, including (i) trip rates, (ii) wait times, (iii) pick-up times and locations, and (iv) drop-off times and locations.

While the Board has added this requirement as a T&C to taxi licences since 2019 , it needs to be added to all taxi licences to standardize T&Cs across all taxis.

Taxi T&C Wording (data)

Data Requirements

Special Committee to Review Passenger Directed Vehicles

Wed, 07/12/2023 - 01:00

Section 42.1 of the Act required the Legislative Assembly to establish a Special Committee. On May 11, 2023, the Special Committee to Review Passenger Directed Vehicles was appointed.

The Special Committee is mandated to conduct a review of passenger directed vehicle services and transportation network services administered under the Act, including, without limitation, a review of the following:

(a)    whether the provision of licences under the Act that include passenger directed vehicle authorizations or transportation network services authorizations promotes:
(i)    an adequate supply of passenger directed vehicles, including accessible passenger directed vehicles, and
(ii)    passenger and driver safety;
(b)    the effectiveness of the test set out in section 28 and used by the Board to assess applications for licenses;
(c)    whether the Act promotes employment in the passenger directed vehicle services and transportation network services industries;
(d)    impacts on public transportation, traffic congestion and the environment attributable to the administration under this Act of passenger directed vehicle services and transportation network services;
(e)    whether the Act promotes passenger directed vehicle services, including transportation network services, in small, rural, or remote communities.

The Special Committee is required to submit a report to the Legislative Assembly respecting the results of this review within one year of its appointment.

Given the scope of the Special Committee’s mandate and its focus on several areas under the Board’s purview, the Board will monitor the work of the committee closely and participate as requested.

Once the report is finalized, Board staff will review and assess the potential impact of recommendations and work with partners in government and interested parties to explore opportunities for implementation.

Deadline to activate additional taxis extended

Wed, 05/24/2023 - 13:00

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) recognizes the significant impact COVID-19 has had on the passenger transportation industry. That is why since June 2020, the Board has granted multiple BC-wide extensions for the activation of:

Taxi modernization vehicles; and
Additional vehicles approved by the Board after March 2020

The Board is aware that licensees continue to experience struggles and challenges in obtaining replacements parts and vehicles, many of which are accessible vehicles, as a result of the supply chain issues caused by the pandemic.

In light of this information, the Board is issuing an extension of the activation deadline to December 31, 2023. Licensees will have until this date to activate additional vehicles, or they may no longer be valid.

Uber transfer application Q&As

Wed, 05/10/2023 - 13:00

Who is the Passenger Transportation Board (Board)?

The Passenger Transportation Board is an independent administrative tribunal in British Columbia established under the Passenger Transportation Act (Act).

The Board is responsible for making decisions, setting terms and conditions, and reviewing appeals related to Special Authorization licences which consist of the following:

Passenger directed vehicle authorizations (i.e., taxis, limos, or shuttles).
Inter-city bus authorizations.
Transportation network service authorizations (i.e., ride-hailing).

What is a transportation network service (TNS)?

TNS stands for Transportation Network Services, which is commonly known as ride-hailing or ride sharing. Passengers hail and pay for services through the use of an online platform. Vehicles on the TNS online platform must be licenced by the Board and comply with provincial regulations.

Who is ReRyde (ReRyde Technologies Inc.)? Who is Uber (Uber Canada Inc.)?

ReRyde and Uber are both privately owned TNS, or “ride-hailing”, companies.

ReRyde was previously approved to operate in the Capital Regional District (Region 2); Vancouver Island, excluding CRD (Region 3); Okanagan-Kootenay-Boundary-Cariboo (Region 4); and North Central and Other Regions (Region 5). This decision can be found here.
Uber was previously approved to operate only in Lower Mainland and Whistler (Region 1). This decision can be found here.

Has Uber’s licence transfer from ReRyde to operate in Region 2 (Capital Regional District), Region 3 (Vancouver Island, excluding CRD), Region 4 (Okanagan-Kootenay-Boundary-Cariboo), and Region 5 (North Central and Other Regions including Islands Trust and Sunshine Coast) been approved?

Yes, the licence transfer from ReRyde to Uber has been approved by the Passenger Transportation Board and the decision can be found in the May 10, 2023 Weekly Bulletin. Uber may now operate in Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, and Region 5. However, before starting to operate in Regions 3 and 5, the Board has directed that Uber provide 3 month’s notice to the Board.

What is a licence transfer?

A licence transfer occurs when a passenger transportation licence is transferred from one legal entity to another. A legal entity may be a person or sole proprietor, a partnership, or a corporation.

Licence holders cannot transfer their licence to anyone else without the Board’s approval. Approval is obtained by way of an application to the Board under section 30 of the Act.

What is considered by the Board in a licence transfer?

In an application to transfer a licence, the Board considers only whether the entity that is receiving the licence, in this case Uber, is fit, proper and capable to provide the service. The Act does not allow the Board to consider whether there is a public need for the transfer or whether transferring the licence promotes sound economic conditions in the passenger transportation industry.

Why has the decision for Uber’s licence transfer from ReRyde taken so long?

Uber’s application was substantial in length and content. Also, the application generated significant public interest – the Board received over 40 submissions, including from taxi companies and other licensed TNS operators.

The Act requires that the Board provide the opportunity to any person to make a submission on an application. Once the submission period closes, submissions are shared with the applicant, who is given time to send a written response to the Board. When that process is completed a panel of the Board is appointed to decide the application. The Board takes great care in reviewing all application and submission documents.

What is the submissions process?

Anyone can make a submission on an application that comes before the Passenger Transportation Board for a decision. The public is made aware of pending applications through a summary published in the Board’s Weekly Bulletin. There is a limited time to provide submissions once the summary is posted in the Weekly Bulletin. There is a $50 filing fee and submissions must be in writing.

Why isn't Uber operating in my area?

In the past Uber was only approved to operate in Region 1. During the pandemic Uber applied to amend its licence so that it could operate in all regions of the province. At that time, the Board declined to approve the application. In that application the Board was able to consider whether there was a public need for the service and the impact on the rest of the industry.

With this decision, Uber is now approved to operate in all regions of the province. Uber drivers are private contractors who choose their own hours. It is up to Uber and its drivers or potential drivers to begin operations in approved areas. Any additional questions regarding Uber’s operations should be directed to the company.

What is the next step for Uber?

Uber may obtain a licence from the Registrar of Passenger Transportation. If the Registrar is satisfied that safety requirements are met, the Registrar will transfer the licence.

The company must then obtain a blanket insurance certificate for ride-hailing from ICBC and work with municipalities in their respective operating areas to ensure compliance with local by-laws.

What is the Registrar’s role?

The Registrar is located within the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. As set out in the Act, the Registrar makes decisions and regulates commercially owned passenger General Authorization licenses (i.e., charter buses, shuttles, tour buses).

The Registrar also handles the day-to-day business of commercial passenger transportation licensing, safety, and compliance. After the Board decides to transfer a Special Authorization licence, the decision is sent to the Registrar. If the Registrar is satisfied that safety requirements are met, the Registrar will transfer the licence.

What are the TNS regions? Where can I find a list of all approved TNS operators?

For more information on regions, click here. For a list of approved TNS operators, click here.

Will the Board accept more TNS applications in the future?

Yes, the Board continues to receive TNS applications from interested parties. The Board is not required to grant applications if the Board does not consider that the applicant has met the requirements under the Act. The Board must make decisions that are reasonable and follow an administratively fair process.

Are TNS companies required to provide wheelchair accessible vehicles?

There is no requirement in the terms and conditions of the licence that TNS licensees provide wheelchair accessible vehicles but licensees must comply with all other applicable laws on this issue.

What enforcement measures are in place to ensure TNS comply with the rules?

Questions regarding enforcement should be directed to the Registrar of Passenger Transportation, who is responsible for compliance and enforcement of the passenger transportation industry. Correspondence related to compliance and enforcement can be sent to cpv@gov.bc.ca or by calling 604-527-2198.

Climate change mitigation and adaptation opportunities

Wed, 05/03/2023 - 14:19

Climate change is a significant priority for the government of British Columbia. The scale of the climate emergency demands urgent action. The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) is reviewing its policies and procedures to support this priority through the regulation of the passenger transportation industry.

The Climate Change Accountability Act and 2021 Ministerial Order set the Province’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reductions targets at 40% by 2030, with 27% to 32% for the transportation sector of the economy. CleanBC Roadmap to 2030, the Province’s climate action plan, sets out the pathways to achieving these targets. Key actions for the transportation sector include:

Accelerating the switch to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV)
Increasing shifts to energy efficient modes of transportation
Improving vehicle efficiency
Reducing distance travelled
Using clean fuels
Expanding BC’s public charging network

A Clean Transportation Action Plan, which will highlight additional steps government will take to reduce emissions in the transportations sector, is anticipated in 2023.

The Zero-Emission Vehicles Act requires all motor vehicles sold in BC to be ZEVs by 2040.

Section 42.1 of the Passenger Transportation Act has requirements to examine the impact of the passenger transportation industry on congestion and the environment.

There are several incentive programs which the passenger transportation industry can use to contribute to climate change goals. These programs subsidize the adoption of clean technology and to reduce GHG emissions.

BC Government initiatives include the following:

CleanBC Go Electric rebate program, which offers up to $4,000 for individuals and $3,000 per vehicle for businesses to purchase a ZEV (up to ten rebates for fleets).
CleanBC Go Electric Fleets Program, which helps cover the costs of fleet assessments, ZEV infrastructure assessment, electrical infrastructure, and charging infrastructure. This program does not stack with some other rebates programs.
CleanBC Go Electric Public Charger Program, which provides $20,000 for fast chargers available to the public.
CleanBC Go Electric Commercial Vehicle Pilots program supports businesses looking to deploy commercial ZEVs, including medium and heavy-duty on-road vehicles along with supporting infrastructure. As part of the program, operational data will be gathered from funded projects and used with the goal of increasing the adoption of ZEVs in commercial fleets in BC.
Provincial sales tax are waived for used electric vehicles and applies a higher luxury tax threshold.

In addition, there are the following relevant programs:

EV advisors are available to Stratas and workplaces.
ZEVs in BC are permitted to use the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes regardless of the number of occupants in the vehicle.
BC Hydro and Fortis BC each provide rebates for EV chargers at homes and workplaces, as well as EV infrastructure and EV ready plans.
The SCRAP-IT program provides $500 cash when scrapping a qualifying vehicle.
The Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association can coordinate up to 35% off the price of new hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles in a fleet.

The Government of Canada also offers the following initiatives:

Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program rebate up to $5,000 per vehicle.
EV Fleet Charging program cover $100,000 or 50% of project costs for commercial fleet installations. This program does not stack with some of BC’s programs.
Canada allows businesses to write ZEV purchases off their taxes.

The Board has not made any decisions yet, but it is committed to support the GHG reduction target. The Board intends its review of existing policy and procedures related to climate change to further align with the regulatory framework.

The Board recognizes the efforts to address climate change made by many members of the industry and encourages further shifts toward a more environmentally sustainable passenger transportation industry.

Inter-city bus COVID-19 policy extension and consultation

Wed, 04/19/2023 - 14:06

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) recognizes the significant impact COVID-19 has had on the passenger transportation industry. Since March 18, 2020, the Board has allowed Inter-City Bus (ICB) operators to temporarily reduce or suspend scheduled service to below minimum required frequencies (MRF), after providing public notice, without applying to the Board for a reduction of service amendment (ICB COVID-19 Policy).

The Passenger Transportation Act states that upon approval of an ICB authorization, the Board may establish MRFs, routes and route points through terms and conditions of licence. Once those terms and conditions are set, licensees must submit an amendment application to the Board to reduce or eliminate a route or MRF as per Rule 39 of the Board's Rules of Practice & Procedure.

The Board plans to undertake a sector-wide consultation with ICB operators in the early fall 2023, with more details to follow. To allow time for the consultation, the Board has decided to extend the ICB COVID-19 Policy until December 31, 2023.

2023 Vancouver cruise ship schedule for TNS and taxi companies

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 13:59

Transportation Network Service (TNS) operators are reminded to review the terms and conditions (T&C) of their licence as the 2023 cruise ship season begins in Vancouver. All TNS licensees in Region 1 are to abide by the designated Geo-Fencing T&C (listed below), which prevents drivers from entering, or picking up passengers at Canada Place cruise ship terminal and, the adjacent block on cruise ship days. While subject to change, the cruise ship schedule, is listed below:

2023 Cruise Ship Dates (07:00 to 19:00)

April 30
May 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, 31
June 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30
July 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 29, 30
August 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28
September 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 29, 30
October 1, 3, 6, 8

As cruise ships arrive and COVID-19 regulations continue to ease, taxi companies in the City of Vancouver including those previously approved for “Peak Period” operations should take note of the 2023 cruise ship dates and expect events such as the Celebration of Lights to take place.

The Board will continue its efforts to ensure that the 2023 cruise ship schedule is up to date, any future changes or amendments will be noted in the corresponding Weekly Bulletin.

Geo-fencing

TNSs operating in the City of Vancouver (in Region 1) must geo-fence off the areas listed below in (a) to (c) on cruise ship days to prevent drivers from picking up passengers:
(a) Canada Place Way between Howe Street and Burrard Street;
(b) Howe Street between Canada Place Way and Cordova Street; and,
(c) Burrard Street between Canada Place Way and Cordova Street.
The Board will post a link to the city’s cruise ship schedule, when available, in March or April of any year.

Notice to licensees RE: potential changes to taxi and TNS rates regulation

Wed, 03/29/2023 - 14:10

The Passenger Transportation Board is requesting feedback regarding potential changes to the regulation of taxi and ride-hailing rates in BC.

Introduction

What is this notice about?

The Passenger Transportation Act (“Act”) allows the Board to set rates “for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges” and to make rules respecting rates (sections 7(1)(f-g)).

The Board is considering enacting rates rules regarding the following:

Eliminating Common Rate Rules for taxis;
Replacing Common Rate Rules with minimum and maximum rates (bands) for taxis;
Allowing taxis to charge higher rates during designated peak periods;
Maintaining the TNS Minimum Rates Rule and revising it to better achieve its intended purpose;
Imposing maximum rates on TNS prices during emergencies;
Creating a new, custom Taxi Cost Index to reflect inflation in taxi rates; and,
Linking the TNS minimum rate to the new Taxi Cost Index.

Currently the Board is seeking feedback on these high-level options. This document describes the changes the Board is considering, the rationale for each proposed change, and guidance for those interested in responding.

The rates change options the Board is considering could have an impact on all existing taxi and TNS licensees. These changes are not intended to impact other passenger directed vehicles, limousines, or inter-city bus licensees.

All potentially affected licensees may wish to participate in this process. Feedback must be in writing and provided to the Board by May 3, 2023. Please send your feedback with the subject line “Proposed rates rules changes” to: ptboard@gov.bc.ca. There is no fee associated with providing feedback on this topic.

Why is the Board looking at rates?

The Board needs to align its rates rules and policy with the 2019 amendments to the Act, which expanded the Board’s role as an economic regulator for the industry. Rates are an important regulatory tool for the Board. Rates rules can be used to address market conditions and balance competition, sustainability, and affordability to meet public need for services.

What are the Board’s guiding principles?

The Board considers several areas when it comes to making decisions that impact the entire system, or “systemic decisions”:

Legislation and mandate: the requirements of the Act; the common law; Select Standing Committee (SSC) recommendations etc.;
Administrative costs and complexity: administrative costs for industry; implementation costs; Board resources to maintain the rates structures; and,
Key values the Board wishes to promote.

In evaluating its role in regulating the passenger transportation industry, the Board has established certain strategic priorities and, regarding rates, the Board seeks to balance the following key values:

The Board seeks to set rates that will be affordable to as many consumers as possible.
The Board’s rates should maximize service quality and preserve public safety.
The Board seeks to set rates that will be sustainable for passenger transportation sectors and motivate sufficient supply to meet public need.
The Board’s rates rules should provide the flexibility necessary for the industry to embrace innovation and competition.
The Board’s rules will form part of an equitable regulatory framework in which passenger transportation sectors can thrive and meet demand, considering different business models.

Where are we in this process?

In October 2022, the Board sent a letter to all BC taxi and TNS licensees inviting their input, feedback, concerns, and recommendations for the Board’s rate policies and structures. The information received from industry was incorporated into the Board’s subsequent work on rates policy, along with research on other jurisdictions and economic analysis.

In March 2023, the Board voted to consider the above changes to the way rates for passenger transportation are regulated in BC. The Board directed staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision. This document provides information that supports people who wish to participate in this feedback process.

How can feedback be given?

Potentially affected licensees (taxi, TNS) may wish to respond to these proposed changes. All feedback must be received by May 3, 2023.

The Board encourages participants to address as many proposed changes as they wish, providing as much information they can to support their feedback. Licensees may wish to consider the following questions in response to each proposed change:

What is your reaction to these proposed changes?
How do you think the changes might affect your business?
Are there issues or concerns you think the Board should consider before deciding to implement these changes?
Do you have any other information that will help the Board make an informed, evidence-based decision about these changes?

Information on current Board rules, policies, and procedures can be found at the Board’s website: https://www.ptboard.bc.ca/.

What are the next steps after this?

After viewing your feedback and relevant information, the Board will consider making a systemic decision regarding rates. The Board’s decisions would create new rates rules applicable to the taxi and TNS sectors.

Please remember that the Board’s decisions will indicate the Board’s general direction for taxi and TNS rates structures. The Board will then prepare for implementation, which will require extensive work. The implementation process may include further consultation (public, licensees, or experts), data analysis, economic modelling, phased starts, etc.

Each option will have different implementation requirements and timelines. The Board commits to providing plenty of notice and guidance to affected licensees before any changes occur.

Changes under consideration

1. Elimination of all Common Rates Rules

Common Rates Rules define areas in which all taxi licensees have the same metered rates. There are currently eight Common Rate Rules (CRR) areas in BC with the following features:

All rates (flag, distance, and waiting) are the same between all licensees under a particular CRR area;
New licensees are generally required to comply with the CRR in their area; and,
A majority (51%) of licensees (or approved vehicles in the case of Vancouver or Fraser Valley) is required to allow any licensee within the CRR area to submit a rate change application.

The Board is considering eliminating the eight current Common Rates Rules (Part II: Flat Fare Zone Rates (YVR) and Part III: Flat Fare Zone Rates (Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal) included in the Greater Vancouver Common Rates Rules would be upheld and moved to an independent rule.). With this change, the rates of taxi licensees currently under CRR would become more independent from other licensees’ rates in the area.

The Common Rates Rules would be replaced by a new taxi rate structure—the direction the Board is considering is outlined in the following section. However, the removal of the CRR is an independent decision.

If the Board proceeds with this option, it would consider how best to implement the elimination of CRR. Some potential approaches could include any of the following:

Establishing a streamlined application process for licensees within a CRR to set their new rate prior to the elimination of the CRR;
Setting the current CRR flag rate as the first post-CRR rate for its area when the area transitions to the replacement taxi rate structure;
Moving directly to the replacement taxi rate structure (i.e., Rate Bands) on a specific day (without application) but ensuring the first Rate Band includes the flag rate found in the CRR for that area.
Taking a phased approach where CRR is eliminated in one region at a time.

2. Establishing minimum and maximum rates (bands) for taxis

In this structure, taxi licensees wishing to change their rate to an amount within the approved Rate Band for their area would simply notify the Board rather than go through a full application process. Taxi licensees wishing to charge a rate that falls outside of the approved Rate Band for their area would submit a rate change application with evidence to justify the exception.

See the following visual representation of a Rate Band and how it may affect the requirement for rate change applications. [Link to image.]

Through this change, taxi licensees could make rates choices based on their knowledge of the industry, their unique business situation, and changing market conditions.

With access to industry data, the Board can now directly regulate taxi rates in a more objective, evidence-based manner. The Board can consider system-wide implications of rates decisions on the profitability and long-term sustainability of the industry, as well as affordability for the public. The Board would control the Rate Bands based on data and these considerations.

If the Board proceeds with this option, then it would examine how best to establish Rate Bands for the taxi sector. For example, the Rate Bands could be established on a provincial, regional, or municipal level or based on population density or some other geographic factor. The Board’s implementation would depend on its analysis of the data.

The Board may also consider how to ensure predictability and transparency for the public. For example, the Board may set limits to the frequency at which a taxi business can change their rates within the Rate Band (e.g., every 6 months) and set requirements around clearly posting rates for the public.

The specific Rate Bands would likely be approved by the Board following data analysis and economic research. Again, the Board would provide plenty of notice to the taxi sector.

The Board knows that moving to a Rates Band scheme would reduce price consistency as a market niche for taxis. Therefore, the Board may consider initially setting narrow Rate Bands to allow industry and the public an adjustment period, with monitoring, review, and potentially a phased approach to setting Rate Bands on a regional or local level over time.

3. Establishing peak period rates for taxis

The Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to allow taxis to charge higher rates during designated peak periods and direct staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

Taxis in BC currently cannot charge peak period rates; rates do not vary as demand for the service fluctuates. The Board is considering allowing taxis in BC to charge higher rates during defined “peak periods”.

The term “peak periods” refers to defined time periods with significant increases in demand for passenger transportation services. These increases in demand can occur, for example, during evenings, late night/early morning weekends, weekday rush hours, holidays etc.

Peak period rates for taxis are not the same as dynamic pricing for TNS. Peak period rates for taxis are a fixed (higher) rate that can be charged during specific time periods. Therefore, the peak period rate would be programmed into the taxi meter to adjust during the specified peak period hours.

The Board prioritizes ensuring adequate supply to meet public need, with high expectations for service quality through low wait times and reliability. The Board promotes sound economic conditions in the passenger transportation industry, including healthy competition, and sustainability. The Board also prioritizes an equitable regulatory framework between sectors, which in turn maintains choice for consumers.

Peak period rates for taxis increase earnings during peak periods and may help operators to use their full fleet capacity and offset higher operational costs. These increased earnings could be invested back in the taxi businesses, ultimately benefiting consumers in terms of service quality and low wait times. It can also help keep taxi licensees operational and competitive, providing stability to the industry and reliability for the public.

A peak period rate could also incentivize more drivers to work during peak times or encourage more taxi business to embrace single shift paired vehicles, resulting in more supply over a 24-hour period and during peak periods (fleet size permitting). Peak periods can be less-desirable times to work for drivers, so peak period rates could motivate drivers to take advantage of extra earnings, improving service to the public as a result.

Allowing taxi licensees to charge peak period rates could mitigate some of the market challenges taxis have encountered since 2019. Improving the sustainability of the taxi sector maintains choice for consumers. The Board balances these benefits with the need to keep taxi rates affordable and predictable for passengers. In considering peak period rates for taxis, the Board would want to see an improvement in service delivery, customer wait times, and adequate supply to meet public need.

If the Board proceeds with this option, it would provide ample advance notice to the taxi sector. The Board would likely examine certain questions during the implementation phase, such as:

What does “peak period” mean – rush hour, weekends, holidays, night shift?
How would setting certain peak periods impact the sector and public?
Would all taxis in a region be allowed to charge a peak period rate, or are there other considerations like population density or competition levels?
Would peak period rates be optional or mandatory?
What are the peak period times in a particular region? The Board’s ability to implement data-based peak period rates relies on licensee data submissions.
Does taxi meter technology limit peak period eligibility, considering meter capabilities and transparency to passengers?
How will the peak period rate be set (e.g., flat dollar, percentage, multiplier)?
How will the peak period rate interact with other Board decisions regarding taxi rates (e.g., Rate Bands)?
How will the Board continue to monitor the outcomes of peak period rates to ensure efficiencies and benefits to the public have been achieved?

4. Increasing the minimum rate for TNS services

The Board is maintaining a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to impose minimum rates on TNS but is considering revising the rule and direct staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

In 2019, the Board set the TNS Minimum Rates Rule, which states that TNS rates (including coupons or discounts) must not fall below the minimum taxi flag rate set in each of BC’s five regions. The Board established the TNS Minimum Rates Rule to ensure rates do not undercut public transit fares and promote healthy competition between taxi and TNS sectors.

However, the current minimum rates rule is based only on taxi flag rates. The rule does not currently reflect the time (waiting) and distance rates for taxis, which contribute to a total taxi fare.

If this change is enacted, the Board’s TNS Minimum Rates Rule would be maintained and adjusted to align better with its key policy objectives. The rule would maintain TNS minimum rates that are higher than public transit fares. The proposed changes to the rule would better align TNS minimum rates with taxi fares across the province, including time and distance calculations. This would likely increase the minimum rates for TNS in each region.

Revising the TNS Minimum Rates Rule can better reflect the Board’s responsibility to maintain sound economic conditions. It would do so by preventing unhealthy price competition that does not ultimately benefit the public or the sustainability of the passenger transportation industry.

If the Board proceeds with this option, then it would do so after analyzing available trip data and public transit fares. This analysis could be impacted by availability of data in certain regions.

Any changes to the TNS Minimum Rates Rule would require alignment with the proposed changes to the taxi rate structure (e.g., Rates Bands) and Taxi Cost Index as well. The Board would provide ample notice to the TNS sector prior to implementing such a rule change.

5. Establishing a maximum rate for ride-hailing during emergencies

The Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to impose maximum rates (caps) on TNS pricing during emergencies only, and direct staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

There is currently no maximum rate for TNS (under any circumstance). The Board is considering limiting TNS rates during emergencies to ensure that TNS algorithms cannot increase prices above the Board approved maximum rate during those emergency conditions. Currently, the Board is not contemplating a maximum rate cap on TNS during non-emergencies.

The Board is concerned about passenger safety and service affordability during emergencies. During these events, passengers may have limited transportation options and are more vulnerable to unreasonable price extremes. Passengers have complained in the past that TNS rates are unaffordable and unfair during extreme weather events in BC (e.g., snowstorms and flooding). The Board is concerned about the affordability of service and safety of the public during these emergency events.

TNS use dynamic pricing to increase supply during high demand periods by increasing their rates, and to attract more passengers during low demand period by lowering their rates. This model strives to achieve service reliability. While the prices may fluctuate and be less predictable at any given time compared to taxi rates, the higher rates could incentivize more drivers to work, resulting in reduced wait times and more efficient response to public need. This increase in price can be at the expense of passenger affordability.

While it logically makes sense to want to limit what passengers can be charged when they are more vulnerable, setting a limit that is too low can also harm supply and service reliability.

If the Board proceeds with this option, then it would undertake data analysis and review evidence to determine a reasonable emergency cap. The Board would also need to consider how it would define what constitutes an “emergency,” and at what geographic level it applies (i.e., local, regional, provincial). Again, the Board would provide advance notice of any rule changes affecting the TNS sector.

6. Establishing a new Taxi Cost Index to keep pace with inflation

The Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to create a custom Taxi Cost Index to reflect inflationary impacts on taxi rates, and direct staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

There is currently an annual scheduled review of taxi rates using the Taxi and Limousine Cost Index (TLCI) to address ongoing issues that impact rates, including pressures related to inflation and cost-of-living. This rule is revised and published following each year TLCI is initiated. Currently, the Board incorporates cost-of-living increase to taxi rates through the TLCI.

The Board’s current TLCI uses all of Statistics Canada’s Consumer Price Index (BC); however, only select CPI factors are relevant cost considerations for the taxi sector. As time passes, using all of CPI (BC) will not correctly capture and handle the effects of inflation on the taxi sector.

Therefore, the Board is considering creating a new custom Taxi Cost Index, consisting of only related CPI (BC) elements and gathered industry data to calculate custom cost-of-living increases more applicable to the taxi sector.

Compiling a custom Taxi Cost Index better reflects the Board's priorities to maintain sound economic conditions and ensure sustainability in the passenger transportation industry. This new Taxi Cost Index would better capture and handle the effects of inflation on the taxi sector, without including CPI factors that are less relevant. Doing so can also benefit consumer affordability by not unnecessarily raising prices when relevant business costs have not risen.

An index comprised of specific, appropriately weighted factors would maximize the Board’s ability to adjust rates to match true increases for the taxi sector.

If the Board chooses the Rate Bands option, it is not compatible with the current TLCI process. In that situation, the Board would consider enacting a TCI that would be mandatory but integrated within the Rate Bands. In this case, only those taxis on the “edges” of the Rate Band would be affected, in addition to any taxis the Board has allowed to exist outside of the Rate Band.

The Board would also consider whether fuel costs should be included in any Taxi Cost Index or whether Fuel Surcharges would be allowed in addition to the Taxi Cost Index. Fuel prices can be volatile and are handled differently in other jurisdictions. If the Board decides on a separate Fuel Surcharge, there are different ways this can be implemented, such as the surcharge coming into effect automatically when fuel costs have reached a predetermined dollar threshold or percentage increase threshold, or when directed by the Board for a period of time.

7. Link TNS minimum rates to changes to the Taxi Cost Index

The Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Passenger Transportation Act to link TNS minimum rates to changes to the Taxi Cost Index and directs staff to undertake a submission process prior to the Board making its final decision.

Under the TNS Minimum Rates Rule, there is currently no mechanism to increase TNS minimum rates in a region over time as the average taxi flag rate increases. If there is a minimum rate in place for TNS, this can be connected to the minimum taxi rate with inflation increases over time.

Without a mechanism linking TNS minimum rate increases to the Taxi Cost Index going forward, taxi (and potentially transit) rates will likely rise over time and TNS minimum rates will remain the same. This undermines the rationale of the TNS Minimum Rates Rule described above.

The Board’s proposal would ensure that TNS minimum rates increase over time according to criteria consistent with taxi rate increases and the cost of public transit fares.

Proposed changes to rates structure - call for feedback

Wed, 03/29/2023 - 13:52

The Passenger Transportation Board (Board) is considering several changes to rates rules that may affect taxi and TNS sectors, as follows:

Eliminating Common Rate Rules;
Replacing Common Rate Rules with minimum and maximum rates for taxis;
Allowing taxis to charge higher rates during designated peak periods;
Maintaining the TNS Minimum Rates Rule and revising it to achieve its intended purpose better;
Imposing maximum rates on TNS prices during emergencies;
Creating a new, custom Taxi Cost Index to reflect inflation in taxi rates; and
Linking the TNS minimum rate to the new Taxi Cost Index.

Please see the Notice To Licensees RE: Potential Changes to Taxi and TNS Rate Regulation for more information on these proposed changes and the Board’s rationale for considering them.

Through its rate structures, the Board continues to seek a balance in consumer affordability with the costs of business and supporting safe, sustainable, and profitable operations in the industry.

Feedback from the industry

Recent changes to the Passenger Transportation Act

Wed, 02/08/2023 - 13:57

Recent amendments to the Passenger Transportation Act (Act) clarify existing powers of the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) and streamline the way the Board makes decisions on applications.

Applicant fitness and capability is now a threshold test. It is the first factor the Board considers when deciding an application. The Board will only consider public need and sound economic conditions if applicants meet the fitness test.

Section 28 (1) of the Act reads:

The board may approve, in whole or in part, an application forwarded to the board under section 26 (1) [other licence applications] after considering the following:

whether the applicant
1. is a fit and proper person to provide the service the applicant proposes to provide under the special authorization, and
2. is capable of providing the service;
if the board considers that the applicant is a fit and proper person to provide the service and is capable of providing the service,
1. whether there is a public need for the service, and
2. whether the application, if granted, would promote sound economic conditions in the passenger transportation industry in British Columbia.

Other changes include the Board now having explicit authority to consider, on its own initiative, records, information and reports and to generate or obtain reports.

The amendments also clarify that the Board may, at any time other than licence renewal, direct the Registrar to amend a Special Authorization licence to:

to correct an error in a licence;
to standardize terms and conditions of
1. all licences, or
2. all licences in a specified class of licences;
to make licences comply with amendments made to this Act or the regulations;
to reflect changes to licences required by the results of an appeal under this Act.

At renewal, the Board may direct the Registrar to amend terms and conditions related to the Board’s authority under section 28(3)-(6) of the Act.

These amendments are now in effect and the Board has updated its rules, policies, application guides and other materials to reflect these changes. Board decisions will also reflect these changes, including reviewing applicant fitness and capability first and only considering public need and sound economic conditions if applicants meet the fitness test.

Board to conduct follow-up investigation on the current state of COVID-19 recovery for BC Passenger Transportation Industry

Thu, 01/26/2023 - 05:36

The Board will be undertaking a follow-up study to the 2021 COVID-19 investigation, to better understand the current economic landscape. For further information, please read the December 14, Industry Advisory and the Q&As.

Credit card surcharges - feedback requested

Wed, 01/18/2023 - 13:20

Payment Card Network Operators (PCNO) such as Mastercard and Visa recently announced that, effective October 6, 2022, businesses will be permitted to add a surcharge, if they choose, to all transactions paid by credit card.

While the new PCNO rules allow for credit card surcharges to be passed on to the consumer, PCNO rules are subject to applicable provincial and federal laws.

Background – Passenger Transportation Board Authority

Under section 7(1)(f) of the provincial Passenger Transportation Act (Act), the Board may approve or set rates to be charged by a licensee in respect of passenger directed vehicles operated under a licence that includes passenger directed vehicle authorization (PDVA) or transportation network services authorization (TNSA) for the purpose of establishing just and uniform charges and any rules or practices relating to those rates.

Under section 7(1)(g) of the Act, the Board may make rules respecting rates that are or may be charged by a licensee, any rules or practices of a licensee relating to those rates and any tariff of those rates. Under the Act, rates include discount fares, deadhead charges, roundtrip fares, point-to-point fares, minimum charges, and any other fees or charges.

Any credit card surcharge is included under the Board’s authority to establish rates rules.

Current Board Rules

Section 18 of the Board Standard Rules for Taxicab Rates [LINK] indicates that licensees may not charge or collect from passengers the following fees: Credit card fees imposed by credit or financial companies on businesses; Fees for booking a fare through a mobile app. Therefore, under the current rules, the taxi sector is not permitted to charge credit card surcharges to customers. As well, surcharges are not permitted for shuttles or other passenger-directed vehicles (i.e., small vans or non-limousine service).

The Board’s TNS Minimum Rates Rule [LINK] applies to TNSA licensees and prohibits the use of coupons or discounts that reduce a fare below the TNS minimum rate. There is no reference to surcharges; therefore, the Board neither permits nor prohibits the charging of credit card surcharges by TNS, the rules are silent on the subject.

The Board’s Min-Max Rates and Standard Rules for Limousines [LINK] allows licensees to charge customers for tolls, public fees, and other service charges, if the licensee informs a customer at the time of the agreement for a variety of items; however, the rule is silent on credit card surcharges.

Submissions from Industry

To improve uniformity and clarity on credit card surcharges, the Board is seeking to amend its rates rules across the passenger transportation industry.

Specifically, the Board is considering enacting a rule under section 7(1)(g) of the Act prohibiting the charging of credit card surcharges by all PDVA and TNSA.

The Board is seeking submissions from industry on this matter. Any submissions must be provided to the Board by February 8, 2023. Please send your submissions with the subject line “credit card surcharge” to: ptboard@gov.bc.ca.

Final deadline to activate additional taxi licenses extended to July 1, 2023

Wed, 12/28/2022 - 05:38

In light of recent feedback from licensees indicating the ongoing struggles and challenges to obtain replacement parts and vehicles (many of which are accessible vehicles) as a result of the supply chain issues caused by the pandemic. The Board is extending the final activation deadline to July 1, 2023.

Q&As for the 2023 Passenger Transportation Board Investigation: COVID-19 Recovery for Passenger Transportation Industry in BC

Wed, 12/14/2022 - 13:00

Why did the Board conduct an investigation in 2021?

In 2021, the Board decided to conduct an investigation, pursuant to section 27 of the Passenger Transportation Act, on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the BC passenger transportation industry. This was done to better support object, evidence-based decision-making.

What were the findings of the 2021 investigation?

The investigation included collection of data and examination of general economic conditions regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the passenger transportation industry. This report was publicly released in September 2021(3 MB) and the Board considered the report in several subsequent decisions.

Why has the Board decided to conduct another investigation in 2023?

The Board has decided to conduct another investigation to assess the state of the passenger transportation industry at this stage of COVID-19 recovery. Doing so will continue to support object, evidence-based decision-making. This follow up study is not being done under section 27, as it is not associated with any specific application, but rather under section 7.

Who will conduct the investigation?

The Board has retained Hara Associates (Dr. Dan Hara), a professional economist, to conduct the follow up investigation. This investigator possesses the requisite expertise in economics in the BC passenger transportation industry to render a valuable report. Hara Associates also conducted the 2021 investigation.

When will the 2023 investigation be complete?

The investigation will begin in around December 2022 and is anticipated to be complete within six months barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Which applications are affected?

As this investigation is being conducted under section 7, it is not associated with any specific application.

Will you share the investigation results with the public?

The Board commits to posting the 2023 report once completed to ensure transparency.

I want to provide the Board with information to support the 2023 investigation. How can I do that?

The investigator will be contacting relevant passenger transportation organizations to gather their input for this investigation. The Board encourages the passenger transportation organizations contacted by Hara Associates to cooperate by providing relevant data and information. Getting a clear picture of current economic conditions is in the best interest of the industry as a whole.

Passenger Transportation Board to conduct follow-up investigation on the current state of COVID-19 recovery for BC passenger transportation industry

Wed, 12/14/2022 - 13:00

The Passenger Transportation Board recognizes the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on British Columbia’s economy, and the resulting challenges that the province’s passenger transportation industry continues to face.

In 2021, the Board launched an investigation(3 MB) to better understand the new economic landscape as a result of COVID-19 and its effects on the passenger transportation industry, pursuant to section 27 of the Passenger Transportation Act.

In the interests of the industry’s long-term well-being, and to fulfil the Board’s mandate under the Act, the Board must ensure it has access to current economic data and analysis, so it may render sound, objective evidence-based decisions.

The Board’s objective is to undertake a follow-up study to the 2021 study, on the current state of recovery from COVID-19 for the passenger transportation industry in BC. This follow-up study is being conducted under section 7 of the Act, so no applications will be affected throughout this investigation.

The Board has retained the services of Hara Associates, a professional economist, to conduct this follow-up investigation. This investigator possesses the requisite expertise in economics and in the BC passenger transportation industry to render a valuable report.

The investigation is expected to take up to 6 months, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

We encourage the public and members of the industry to continue to consult the Board’s website for any updates.

Deadline to activate additional taxis extended

Wed, 12/14/2022 - 13:00

Since June 2020, the Passenger Transportation Board (Board) has recognized the significant impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the passenger transportation industry and as such has granted multiple BC-wide extensions for the activation of:

Taxi modernization vehicles; and
Additional vehicles approved by the Board after March 2020

In May 2022 and based on consultation with the taxi industry, the Board issued a final activation deadline of December 31, 2022. However, recent feedback from licensees indicates the ongoing struggles and challenges to obtain replacement parts and vehicles (many of which are accessible vehicles) as a result of the supply chain issues caused by the pandemic.

In light of this information, the Board is extending the activation deadline to July 1, 2023.
Licensees will have until this date to activate additional vehicles, or they will no longer be valid.