DEREGULATION AND INTERCITY BUS OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

The impact of deregulation on the intercity bus industry and those who use the services of this industry is an issue of increasing interest given Florida's July 1, 1980, deregulation of motor carrier transportation of passengers and freight. This preliminary study of the Florida bus industry examines the operation of the intercity bus industry in a deregulated environment and notes the changes in service that have occurred and how these changes have affected the users of intercity bus service. The study also shows the relation of Florida bus operations, both prior to and following deregulation, to interstate service. As deregulation in Florida had only been in effect for seven months at the time of this study, it is too soon to determine the medium to long-term impacts of deregulation. The study found, however, that in the short run, regular-route carriers do not appear to have done much major restructuring of their northern Florida routes or started many new ones. The loss of regular-route passenger service observed in some of the towns has proved inconvenient, but service is generally available within a reasonable distance. Competition in the charter and tour sector has, on the other hand, increased considerably, bringing with it an increased concern for safety by existing operators. Attractions and groups using charter and tour services appear to have adequate service available.