Cab call away: regulation in Virginia.

• Author: Mangu-Ward, Katherine
• Position: Citings - Brief article

Taxis in Alexandria, Virginia, are required by local law to take at least two calls from a dispatcher every day. The rule, which took effect in 2005, is aimed at discouraging cab drivers from idling at hotels, or at nearby Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, looking for big fares. But since there aren't enough dispatch calls to go around, a requirement designed to ensure good taxi service is instead driving cab companies out of business.

The Alexandria Gazette Packet reports that the rule forced the Columbus Cab Company to shut its doors; another business...