The Public Service Commission voted 4-1 Thursday to grant the Technology Network Carrier license to Lyft.
Republican commissioner Bob Lake of Hamilton voted against granting the license to the app-based ride sharing company. He said he was concerned that Lyft and Uber drivers could run taxi companies out of business, and because they’re not obligated to serve the public, some people could be left without essential transportation services. Lake also opposed Uber’s license.
The license is effective immediately.
Lyft spokeswoman Chelsea Harrison said the company looks forward to bringing the service to Montana, but it does not have any launch plans to announce.