You probably are correct. Initial regulations likely were earnestly enacted for the public good. I believe NYC implemented the medallion system (the first in

You probably are correct. Initial regulations likely were earnestly enacted for the public good. I believe NYC implemented the medallion system (the first in the US?) because it was concerned that taxis would become so numerous that they would clog-up the streets. Over time, politicians figured out how to exploit their increasing power for personal gain. There's nothing unique to taxi service in this pattern.