Quebec passes law to regulate Uber

The province's controversial taxi bill, which would regulate ride-hailing services such as Uber, passed after the Liberal government forced the legislationto a vote, as the last day of the National Assembly session turned into a marathon.

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Initially, all sides, including the taxi industry, wanted Bill 100 passed.

The government thought it had reached consensus with all parties on an amendment that would allow Uber90 daysto come up with a pilot project before the law comes into effect.

But today, QubecSolidaireretracted their consent because the partybelieves the amendment is too vague and would createtwo classes of taxi drivers.

They believe that is unfair to taxi drivers who hold permits which can cost up to $200,000.

Once Qubec Solidaire retracted its consent, the Liberal government said it wasforced to invoke a "closure" motion, cutting off debate and forcing the bill to a vote, which passed because the Liberals have a majority.

The opposition accused the government of using anundemocratic tactic.

The new lawwillrequire "remunerated passenger transportation services," including UberX, to buya taxi permit or face stiff fines.

Anyone offering taxi transportation services without holding a permit would face fines of$2,500 to $25,000.The company could befined up to $50,000.

The Coalition AvenirQubec, for its part,has argued that the legislation will ultimately hurt consumers in Quebec by limiting their options if it results in Uber being forced out of the province.

CAQ's resistance sparked a protest of its own earlierthis week by up to 1,000 taxi drivers in Montreal.

Taxi drivers have always maintainedit's unfair thatUberXdoesn't followthe same rules they do.