A bill designed to shore up taxicab ordinances for the benefit of riders and drivers is drawing mixed reviews from the industry. Taxi bill would require
more English skills
By Gordon Y.K. Pang
gpang@starbulletin.comFor passengers, Bill 81 calls for a clearer definition of who can become a taxi driver.
Other portions of the bill, introduced by City Council Transportation Chairwoman Darrlyn Bunda, are intended to give drivers a small degree of safety. She said the bill also would allow cab companies to promote ride-sharing programs.
The bill will be aired before the City Council tomorrow.
Currently, the law states that a person seeking a taxicab driver certificate must have "a sufficient understanding of the English language." The new bill would require "the ability to speak, read and write in the English language at a level sufficient to discuss and answer questions about fares and routes and to follow the directions and carry out the requests of English-speaking passengers."
Dale Evans, president of Charley's Taxi, likes the change. "Consumers should be able to expect the driver will be able to understand their directions."
But Edwin Matsumoto, chief operating officer of SIDA Taxi and Tours, said the language calls for more subjective decision-making.
He acknowledged that SIDA receives some complaints about poor language skills of drivers but not a significant number. Of some cabbies, he said, "I've had some doubts when I first interviewed them, and they turn out to be my best drivers."
The bill would also let drivers reject a prospective rider who is unwilling or unable to pay. Current law offers protection only against disorderly riders.
Both Evans and Matsumoto support that clause, as well as a provision that would require immigrants seeking taxi certificates to provide proof that they are allowed to work in the country. Another proposed change would require potential drivers to get written authorization before using a company's name on a certificate.
Evans said she also likes a clause that would allow advertising some of her company's services, such as ride-sharing and medicine pickup, something they cannot do now.
