The DC Taxicab Commission (DCTC) today announced that it intends to use its regulatory authority to require all DC taxis to accept non-cash payments as of March 30, 2013. In addition, DCTC will ask the Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP) to cancel the procurement for the Total Smart Meter System (TSMS).

DCTC had developed TSMS to upgrade the District’s taxi industry. However, the procurement had been halted due to a sustained protest. In the mean time, DCTC reviewed and analyzed the industry. The technological advancements and marketplace competition now provide an opportunity to fulfill the objective to upgrade the DC taxi industry and avoid an excessive time period for implementation with a system that may be bypassed by technology. DCTC believes strongly it’s necessary to proceed with this option rather than the previous approach.

“In the past year the number of digital reservation companies that also have the capability to accept credit card payments has increased significantly,” said DCTC Chairman Ron M. Linton. “In order to swiftly offer a system for non-cash payments and add other components of modernization it is critical to require all taxis in the District to immediately obtain the appropriate equipment. We expect both drivers and passengers to benefit.”

Emergency rules to require all DC taxis to accept non-cash payments will be considered for adoption at the next General Commission Meeting on Thursday, January 24, 2013. Taxicab owners can obtain services from any company that can handle non-cash payments and meet the requirements of DCTC regulations.

The other upgraded service features that were included with TSMS will be achieved by issuing separately an Invitation for Bids to provide the following: guidance system; safety mechanism; driver verification for passengers; and the concession contract for advertising. Taxi owners will receive a major share of advertising revenues. The full implementation is expected to be completed by July, 2013.