SEATTLE - The Bainbridge ferry pulls into Seattle. Our hidden camera follows commuters down the ramp at the terminal. They face a wall of limo drivers, trolling for passengers.
"They're looking in the door, reaching in the door, shouting at people coming down the ramp trying to solicit fares,” said Bainbridge resident Jim Lee
The men claim to be taxi drivers, but actual cabbies look on while their fares are plucked away.
Limo drivers are restricted from soliciting. They're only allowed to respond to calls for reservations.
But Jim Lee often sees a line of limo drivers at the ferry dock.
"One of the drivers I noticed reached out for the luggage that a woman carrying, a roll-a-way thing,” he said. "Thats how aggressive they are."
Limos are state licensed, but not regulated in the City of Seattle. That's about to change.
The Seattle City Council is considering a law that would give the city authority to enforce state laws governing limos to make sure they're not gouging customers.
Some cabbies support that.
"This will help us remain viable. It’s been a tough ten years,” said cab driver Deb Duggan.
If the law passes, the city will be able to fine limo companies that fail to follow the rules and enforcement will be paid for by the state.
The council is expected to pass the law next Monday.
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