State Panel Approves New Rules for Uber

Connecticut lawmakers are moving closer toward setting up new rule for the ride-hailing services like Uber Technologies.

The General Assembly's Transportation Committee on Wednesday voted 31-0 in favor of a bill that creates a wide list of rules Uber must follow. The bill is the result of negotiations between the company and the taxi and livery industry, which claims Uber is essentially an unregulated taxi service and should be subject to the same regulations.

The bill would require transportation network companies" to register annually with the Department of Transportation. Drivers would have to undergo a background screening.

Lawmakers said additional issues need to be ironed out, such as insurance requirements for Uber.

Uber Connecticut's General Manager Matt Powers called the legislation a "smart bill." It now waits further legislative action.