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Will the state step in and regulate transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft? They’ve been trying to do it for a few years, and as Matt Galka tells us, 2016 looks like a long shot as the end of legislative session gets closer.

The attempt to pass statewide regulations on ride sharing companies like Uber and Lyft has had more stops than starts.

The Florida House already passed an Uber-supported bill that requires minimum insurance requirements, some background checks, and pre-empts local government regulation. Senator Jeff Brandes backs that one.

“Having a vote on it today will show us, in red and green, who’s supportive of free market principals and who has some problems with it,” said Sen. Brandes (R-St. Petersburg).

That bill stalled in the Senate. Partly thanks to the chamber’s President and taxi cab companies. But Uber tried to get the Senate President to shift gears. The company dropped off more than 30 thousand petitions supporting Uber at his office Thursday.

“We’re asking for the Senate not to fear the debate on ride sharing today, it’s time for the voices of the people of Florida to be heard,” said Colin Tooze with Uber.

Cab companies are still pushing the Senate’s version of the bill.

“They got to operate on a level playing field, they have to operate on the same rules we operate by, that’s what’s fair,” said taxi lobbyist Ron Book.

The sponsor says he’s still trying to make something happen.

“I really believe that if this matter is left only to insurance, we’re going to have made a significant step forward,” said Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs).

Lawmakers have to step on the gas if they want to get any legislation passed before session ends Friday.Lawmakers could vote on the issue tomorrow, the last day of legislative session. If nothing gets passed – local government rules will continue to determine how ride sharing companies operate throughout the state.