Ride-hailing companies run into another bump
Clark County commissioners expressed vocal disappointment Tuesday in the failure of Uber and Lyft to answer questions.
The inquiry from commissioners for the ride-hailing companies was simple enough: Do they believe they need a county business license to operate in the county or is their state license enough?
The representatives from both companies said they were unable to answer that question.
The conversation came as commissioners were introducing an ordinance to regulate the ride-hailing companies, which already have state licenses.
"You understand right now ... you can't tell me whether or not it's your intent to operate with or without a business license," commission Chairman Steve Sisolak asked the company representatives.
Sisolak added he was "extremely disappointed."
The timing could be problematic for Uber and Lyft which, by regulation, must begin operations by Oct. 15 or forfeit their state licenses. The county isn't scheduled to consider adoption of the ordinance until Oct. 20, with final approval planned for early November.
Commissioners did discuss the potential of issuing the companies temporary business licenses so they could operate in advance of the final ordinance and licensing process getting set up. But with the lack of answers from the companies, that idea failed to gain traction.
Commissioners introduced the ordinance on Tuesday, with the Oct. 20 date set for a public hearing and final vote.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Contact Ben Botkin at bbotkin@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2904. Find him on Twitter: @BenBotkin1
