Lyft Pausing Service In Everett

EVERETT, WA - Lyft will stop picking up riders in Everett over a proposed city rule governing rideshare drivers, the company announced Thursday morning. Spokesman Scott Coriell said that the decision was made out of "an abundance of caution to protect drivers."

Everett has been working on regulations to govern rideshare services - including Lyft rival Uber - that would require, among other regulations, that rideshare drivers obtain a business license.

Here's Lyft's statement released Thursday:

This stems from concerns over rules proposed by the city, which would require Lyft drivers to get an additional business license and separate vehicle inspection to pickup riders in Everett. That's on top of three licenses and an inspection they have to get in King County. Drivers who don't meet these new requirements could face penalties in Everett, which include fines of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.

Out of an abundance of caution and to protect drivers from fines and potential jail time, we have paused pick ups in Everett until we can conclude negotiations with city council. We apologize for the inconvenience and are very hopeful that we'll be able to reach common ground soon. Service will continue as normal in Seattle and passengers can still be dropped off in Everett.

Image via Associated Press