[driverdan]

> As far as I know, drivers pay "rent" to the owners, and then keep the remainder of the takings for the day...

That's how taxis work in many places, including where I live (Austin, TX). Many of the taxi drivers here lease their taxi from one of the few cab companies which are restricted by anti free market cab regulations.

> ...incentivising extreme recklessness and lawlessness as they try to complete as many trips as possible

These two are not necessarily connected. It is the government's responsibility to make sure they are not being reckless or lawless.

[oldgregg]

If you're in town tomorrow you should stop by the launch party for Satoshi Square- we're building a coop around free-market principles and helping startups navigate burdensome regulations.

http://satoshiatx.com