Section 1-703 - Public transportation(a) It is the policy of the State to authorize each county and municipality to displace or limit competition in the area of public transportation to: (1) provide adequate, economical, and efficient transportation services;(2) protect against excessive and inconsistent prices for transportation services;(3) conserve energy and reduce accidents, air pollution, congestion, and traffic hazards through public transportation;(4) encourage its use by contributing capital and operating funds so that transportation may be provided at the lowest cost; and(5) promote the general welfare by providing a comprehensive transportation system.(b) Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a county or municipality may:(1)(i) grant one or more franchises for transportation services on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis;(ii) impose franchise fees;(iii) establish rates applicable to the franchise; and(iv) adopt rules, regulations, and licensing requirements for the operation of the franchise; or(2) operate a public transportation system on an exclusive basis, including: (i) establishing rates for the public transportation system; and(ii) adopting rules and regulations for the operation of the public transportation system.Revised and recodified by 2013 Md. Laws, Ch. 119,Sec. 2, eff. 10/1/2013.