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Representative Evans proposes rideshare license plate or standard placard; industry warns of false security
Summary
Representative Paul Evans introduced House Bill 3345, proposing a distinct rideshare/taxi identifier (cherry-red lettering on a plate or standardized placard) and a $50 annual fee; the proposal drew opposition from industry witnesses who warned it could create a false sense of security.
Representative Paul Evans again appeared before the committee to introduce House Bill 3345, which would establish an automobile license plate for taxis and rideshare vehicles with cherry-red lettering (or a standard placard), create a class D traffic violation for failing to display a rideshare plate, and impose a $50 annual issuance and renewal fee.
Evans said the intent is to help riders — particularly older Oregonians or those with limited vision — identify the correct vehicle in poor visibility or when phones fail: a conspicuous plate or standard placard would make it easier to tell a rideshare or taxi is the intended vehicle. He said he would be open to a standard company-issued placard if the company agreed to a consistent, visible format rather than a state plate system that could be more costly.
Vice Chair Osborne and other committee members discussed existing app safety features such as driver photo and plate verification and newer industry practices (PIN codes that riders must give drivers). Peter Brown of TechNet, testifying in opposition on behalf of transportation network companies, said app platforms already provide rider and driver photos, vehicle make and license plate information and additional opt-in safety features; he warned a special red plate could create a false sense of security and be easily counterfeited. Nathaniel Hudson Hartman, a rideshare driver with Drivers Union Oregon, testified to represent drivers’ interests and said drivers and drivers’ groups welcome policymaker attention and are open to working with lawmakers. Several committee members suggested a placard produced or approved by companies could be an alternative to a new state plate.
No committee vote occurred; the committee closed the public hearing on HB 3345 after testimony.
