The Milwaukee City Council on Tuesday unanimously passed an ordinance that lifts a cap on taxicab permits, effectively opening the door for an unlimited number of drivers. For years it had been capped at 320 permits before the council in November added 100 more.
All drivers would be required to pay an annual fee of $250 and adhere to the same licensing rules and background investigations.
The ordinance would take effect Sept. 1, assuming Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett signs it. Barrett has urged the council to find a way to allow Uber and Lyft to operate legally.
Existing cab companies in Milwaukee have opposed the ordinance changes and are expected to mount a court challenge.