Quebec passes law to regulate Uber

The province's controversial taxi bill, which would regulate ride-hailing services such as Uber, passed after the Liberal government forced the legislation to a vote, as the last day of the National Assembly session turned into a marathon.

• Quebec government strikes deal to allow Uber to keep operating
• 'Why are they stalling?' Taxi drivers question new Uber deal

Initially, all sides, including the taxi industry, wanted Bill 100 passed. 

The government thought it had reached consensus with all parties on an amendment that would allow Uber 90 days to come up with a pilot project before the law comes into effect.

But today, Québec Solidaire retracted their consent because the party believes the amendment is too vague and would create two classes of taxi drivers.

They believe that is unfair to taxi drivers who hold permits which can cost up to $200,000.

Once Québec Solidaire retracted its consent, the Liberal government said it was forced to invoke a "closure" motion, cutting off debate and forcing the bill to a vote, which passed because the Liberals have a majority.

The opposition accused the government of using an undemocratic tactic. 

The new law will require "remunerated passenger transportation services," including UberX, to buy a taxi permit or face stiff fines.

Anyone offering taxi transportation services without holding a permit would face fines of $2,500 to $25,000. The company could be fined up to $50,000.

The Coalition Avenir Québec, for its part, has argued that the legislation will ultimately hurt consumers in Quebec by limiting their options if it results in Uber being forced out of the province.

CAQ's resistance sparked a protest of its own earlier this week by up to 1,000 taxi drivers in Montreal. 

Taxi drivers have always maintained it's unfair that UberX doesn't follow the same rules they do.