Subcommittee advances bill to let certain charter and for‑hire services operate as transportation network companies in rural areas

The subcommittee considered a bill that would amend definitions related to transportation network companies so that certain charter limousines or for‑hire passenger vehicles can be regulated as transportation network companies (TNCs) rather than as class E motor carriers.

Breeden provided a staff summary saying the change would reduce regulatory burdens that can prevent small, local operators from using digital platforms and thereby expand rural transportation options. Michael Burris, CEO of the South Carolina Policy Council, supported the bill and argued it would enable "mom‑and‑pop Uber and Lyft" style services in communities that currently see no TNC activity. Burris said his organization found "103 incorporated towns and 3 entire counties" that had received no TNC fees over a multiyear period and said the change could help address chronic transportation gaps for rural residents.

Committee members pressed Burris on safety, liability and tax collection. Burris said safety protocols and liability insurance would mirror the Uber/Lyft model and that TNC fees and taxes would continue to be remitted to local governments in the same way as existing TNC operators.

After questions and discussion, a committee member moved to report the bill favorably to the full committee; a second was noted and the chair announced it would receive a favorable report. The transcript does not include a roll‑call tally.