Press Release

Drivers of ‘Amish Taxis’ Require State Certification

Published on 7/12/2005

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s (PUC’s) Bureau of Transportation & Safety, in conjunction with Rep. Teresa Forcier (R-Crawford), will host a Community Meeting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 27, at the Dutch Treat Restaurant at 339 Main St. in Spartansburg, Crawford County.  The purpose of the meeting is to remind people that they are required to first obtain a paratransit certificate before transporting people for compensation, including those whose personal convictions prevent them from owning or operating a vehicle.

Drivers should be aware that it is unlawful to transport people for compensation without a PUC license. The meeting will provide information on how to become compliant and avoid costly fines.  PUC officials will discuss the rules and regulations for transporting persons for compensation.  Also, guests will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn how to apply for certification to transport the Amish within Pennsylvania.

Representatives from the offices of Sen. Robert D. Robbins (R-Mercer), Rep. John R. Evans (R-Crawford/Erie) and Rep. Rod E. Wilt (R-Crawford/Lawrence/Mercer) will also attend the Community Meeting.

The paratransit certificate is used to transport persons on an advance reservation basis using a vehicle with seating capacity of up to 15 passengers.

Legitimate paratransit vans have the name of the company and a PUC identification number in 2-inch-high block lettering on both sides of the vehicle.  A vehicle without these markings is not a PUC licensed vehicle, and consumers should not use the vehicle.

The PUC issues certificates for the transportation of passengers and property between points in the state.  Passenger transportation certificates are issued for taxi, limousine, paratransit, group and party, airport transfer and scheduled route service.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition.

For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage at www.puc.state.pa.us.

# # #

Contact:

• Cyndi Page
  Sr. Communications Specialist
  717-214-5434
  cypage@pa.gov