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City of Seattle
Gregory J. Nickels, Mayor
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NEWS ADVISORY
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| SUBJECT: Mayor Nickels commends Council for passing new taxi legislation
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
8/11/2008 4:00:00 PM |
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Alex Fryer (206) 684-8358
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Mayor Nickels commends Council for passing new taxi legislation
Council approves Nickels’ proposal for greener, more fair taxi industry
SEATTLE - Mayor Greg Nickels applauds today's actions by the City Council changing the taxicab code to ensure a greener, more fair and open industry. The new regulations require all new taxis to get at least 30 miles per gallon which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the current fleet by 40 percent. A key component of the legislation will allow the city of Seattle to issue up to 35 new licenses per year, up to a maximum of 850. There are currently 643 licenses. The rules also cap leases charged by taxi owners to drivers.
"Today, the taxi industry has taken big steps to becoming cleaner and more equitable. With nearly 90 percent of drivers born outside of the United States, driving a taxicab is an important step in building a new life here. I feel strongly that these drivers should be able to pursue the American dream. And for taxicab customers, these new regulations will mean improved service. This legislation is a winning situation for all -- it's good for the environment, good for the customer, good for the drivers, and good for the industry."
Visit the mayor’s web site at www.seattle.gov/mayor. Get the mayor’s inside view on efforts to promote transportation, public safety, economic opportunity and healthy communities by signing up for The Nickels Newsletter at www.seattle.gov/mayor/newsletter_signup.htm.
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Office of the Mayor
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