HF1427

This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1427) aims to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities by requiring Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft to provide wheelchair-accessible services. The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Wheelchair Accessibility Requirement: TNCs must ensure that their services include wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) equipped with ramps or lifts.

2. Wheelchair Accessibility Surcharge: TNCs must pay a $0.15 surcharge per ride that is not wheelchair accessible. The funds collected will be deposited into a newly established Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Account.

3. Digital Platform Accessibility: By January 1, 2026, TNC's digital platforms must be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

4. Equity Data Reporting: Each TNC must submit an annual report (due October 1) detailing service accessibility for disabled individuals, including ride requests, trip fulfillment rates, and average wait times. Failure to show a positive impact on accessibility could result in fines of up to $15,000 per company.

5. Nondiscrimination Policy: TNCs must implement a nondiscrimination policy that ensures equal service for disabled passengers. Key provisions include:

   • No refusals of service due to disabilities.
   • No additional fees for passengers with disabilities or service animals.
   • Drivers must assist passengers with mobility devices when possible.
   • The digital platform must allow direct WAV ride requests.
   • The company must facilitate accessible rides by providing an alternative provider when necessary.

6. Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Account & Grants:

   • A special revenue account is created to support WAV services.
   • If annual collections from the surcharge don’t reach $850,000, the general fund will cover the shortfall.
   • Grants will be available to taxi companies and independent TNC contractors maintaining at least 10% of their fleet as WAVs. Grant categories include:
     • Up to $7,500 for WAV purchase or modification.
     • Up to $3,500 for maintenance and equipment costs.
     • Up to $20 per wheelchair-accessible ride fulfilled.
     • Up to $15 for drivers working four-hour shifts providing WAV services.

7. Local Government Licensing Incentives: Cities that regulate small vehicle passenger services can waive licensing fees for TNCs or taxi companies maintaining at least 10% of their fleet as WAVs.

This bill promotes accessibility, ensures oversight of TNCs regarding disability accommodations, provides financial incentives to increase WAV availability, and establishes penalties for non-compliance.