D.C. Segway tour guide companies fighting new regulations

Did you know in order to give a tour in D.C. you have to pass a test? You do and some Segway tour guides say that goes against their freedom of speech.

2 Comments

d.c. segway tour

The owner of the Segway company who filed the lawsuit Thursday says that none of his guides that he employs currently are actually licensed since these new regulations went into effect this summer. He says he's fighting these regulations because they are unfair.

Should the person that is taking you on a Segway tour be licensed to spout out their knowledge? We stopped a Segway tour in progress to find out.

"I'm a college graduate and I have learned a lot of history by just following my tour guide today so, whatever that will tell you," said tourist David Hight.

Tourist Taylor Moyer added, "I think if they live here, and you know...in an interview they can ask enough questions if they're qualified to be a tour guide. I mean, she's a great tour guide and she lives here and she knows what it's about."

Under new regulations, D.C. is requiring Segway tour guides to take a test and get a license before actually giving tours.

Ryan Donovan has been giving tours for five months. He said, "it's all about the knowledge and love of the city."

Another company in the city, but not operating this particular tour, has filed a federal lawsuit Thursday. The company, called Segs in the City, said the regulations are an unconstitutional infringement on free speech.

All other guides, including bus, trolley, on the water, and walking guides, have to be licensed in the city of D.C.

2 Comments