§ 1-703. Public transportation

   (a) Legislative policy. -- It is the policy of the State to authorize each county and municipality to displace or limit competition in the area of public transportation to:

   (1) provide adequate, economical, and efficient transportation services;

   (2) protect against excessive and inconsistent prices for transportation services;

   (3) conserve energy and reduce accidents, air pollution, congestion, and traffic hazards through public transportation;

   (4) encourage its use by contributing capital and operating funds so that transportation may be provided at the lowest cost; and

   (5) promote the general welfare by providing a comprehensive transportation system.

(b) Authority. -- Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a county or municipality may:

   (1) (i) grant one or more franchises for transportation services on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis;

      (ii) impose franchise fees;

      (iii) establish rates applicable to the franchise; and

      (iv) adopt rules, regulations, and licensing requirements for the operation of the franchise; or

   (2) operate a public transportation system on an exclusive basis, including:

      (i) establishing rates for the public transportation system; and

      (ii) adopting rules and regulations for the operation of the public transportation system.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 23A, § 2A(a), art. 25, § 3D(a)(1), (2), art. 25A, § 5A(a), art. 25B, § 13B(a); 2013, ch. 119, § 2.