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Calif. Regulators Offer Rules For Car Sharing Services

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — California regulators have proposed new rules for the burgeoning ride or car sharing industry.

The proposed rules announced by the state Public Utilities Commission Tuesday would consider online rideshare services like Lyft, Uber and Sidecar as "Transportation Network" companies. That would make them fall under a separate category from the one that has long governed taxicabs and limousine services.

Under the proposed rules, these companies would have to meet certain requirements before they can seek a permit to operate. Those requirements include having their customers undergo driver training and a criminal background check.

Online rideshares, peer-to-peer taxis and carpool apps have faced criticism and calls for bans because they compete with taxis. Some of the services get around safety regulations and government fees by offering a donation-based system.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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