The DC Taxicab Commission (DCTC) today adopted Proposed Rulemaking to require all DC taxicabs to accept non-cash payments. The proposed regulations are expected to be published in the District Register on Friday, February 8, 2013.

DCTC made a determination to follow the process dictated by the Administrative Procedures Act to provide a 30-day comment period after publication rather than issue Emergency Rulemaking. The intent of DCTC is to proceed with careful consideration and allow input from the industry including drivers, riders and credit card service providers.

Other action items approved for final publication included rulemakings to suspend vehicle retirement through June 30, 2013; extend the valid number of days for Special Event Permits from thirty (30) days to forty-five (45) days; and establish the mandate for the new standardized dome light for taxis and update penalties and fines.

There will be a Special Commission Meeting on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 to consider the following action items: emergency rulemaking for the pre-approval of the Modern Taximeter Systems; proposed rulemaking for Sedan vehicles; proposed rulemaking for digital dispatch services; and proposed amendments for limousine operators and vehicles. This meeting will be held at 441 4th Street, NW in the Old Council Chambers at 10:00 am.