Rate Hike and Rule Changes Proposed for D.C. Taxis

If the D.C. Taxicab Commission gets its way, passengers will face a fare increase for the rate per mile, though the initial $3 flat rate will remain the same. The rules proposed will also begin the process of eliminating outdated vehicles from use as taxicabs. The new rates, if approved, could go into effect Feb. 3.

According to a press release from the commission the 44 percent rate per mile increase will put D.C. "more in line with peer jurisdictions" and return revnues for drivers and rates for passengers "to levels comparable to the zone-based fare system."

Other changes eliminate many of the surcharges passengers face today—no more fees for extra passengers. Additionally the snow emergency surcharge will be a flat rate, $10 for trips ending in D.C. and $20 for trips into the suburbs.

"We need to improve the quality of service – including the ability for customers to pay by credit card – as well as revisit the rate schedule to ensure it is fair to both drivers and consumers and in line with rates in other cities," said Mayor Vincent Gray in a prepared statement.

The proposed rules will be published Dec. 23 for a 30-day comment period, according to a press release from the commission. There will be a public hearing on these changes at the Commission’s general meeting Jan. 11.