CT SB00342

Requires Department of Transportation certificate before operating any taxicab, based on findings that public convenience and necessity exist and applicant is suitable to operate.

Certificate applicants must undergo state and federal criminal history records checks via fingerprinting, with applicant paying the FBI fee; application fee is $88.

Allows department to amend existing certificates to increase number of taxicabs without holding a hearing if no objections are filed within 30 days of public notice.

Establishes civil penalties up to $100 per day for certificate holders or their officers who violate taxicab regulations regarding fares, service, operation, or equipment.

Makes operating a taxicab without a required certificate a Class A misdemeanor, effective October 1, 2010.