Correspondence: Minister Peter Fassbender re: Transportation and Accommodation Services

Letter from Minister Peter Fassbender regarding Sharing Economy

April 8, 2016

Ref: 166815

His Worship Mayor David Screech Town of View Royal 45 View Royal Ave Victoria, BC V9B 1A6

Dear Mayor Screech:

The Province of British Columbia knows that British Columbians have expressed an interest in seeing greater choice, convenience and competition in the availability and provision of transportation and accommodation services. Companies such as Uber, Lyft and Airbnb may present opportunities to meet changing public expectations.

In considering the opportunities that these services may provide, it is important that the Province understands any impacts that could result for consumers, host communities and existing service providers. The many people currently providing passenger and accommodation services in British Columbia have made investments, providing jobs and valuable contributions to the economy. Thought must be given as to how any new services are regulated, recognizing the need to be respectful of existing industry participants while at the same time being fair and equitable to any possible new entrants to these sectors.

To this end, over the coming months, I will be meeting with a wide array of stakeholders to explore issues pertaining to the sharing economy and develop a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges that they provide for citizens and communities.

Locally elected officials from both urban and rural regions will have important perspectives on the issues and opportunities surrounding the sharing economy, and I am eager to draw these out as part of the consultation process. It is my hope that I will be able to engage with as many local governments as possible in person over the coming months. Regardless of whether we are able to undertake this discussion in person, I would also value the opportunity to review your thoughts on this matter via any written submission you may care to provide to me, and I encourage you to consider sending your thoughts to me directly by email at: CSCD.Minister@gov.bc.ca.

Your perspectives could include ideas on how sharing and existing service economies could be integrated, on perceived challenges and opportunities, and on provincial and local government roles in regulating and facilitating any changes we might contemplate.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Peter Fassbender Minister