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NEWARK -- Several Newark cab and limousine companies have filed a federal lawsuit against the city arguing that a $10 million deal cut with online ride-hailing company Uber violates constitutional rights of taxi drivers.

The lawsuit filed last week is the latest move by taxi groups to protest the deal they say unfairly tips the competitive scales in favor of Uber and similar companies.

Newark's cab associations have opposed the $10 million deal since it was announced in April.

The cab associations argue in the suit that Newark forces them to buy $500,000 licenses, while devaluing those licenses by letting online ride-hailing companies operate without them.

The plaintiffs, which include Newark Cab Association and Newark Taxi Owner Association, wrote that Uber's use of a mobile app to connect drivers and riders should not exempt the company from municipal regulations.

"Because cars, drivers and passengers exist and travel in the real world, not the virtual world, the same public safety concerns exist regardless of how passenger and driver connect," the lawsuit states. "Therefore, the rules governing the activity should be substantially the same for all."

Taxi and limo companies face more costly safety regulations than businesses like Uber, the lawsuit states. Policies governing drivers' qualifications, background checks, application fees, inspections, rates and insurance differ between cab companies and ride-hailing businesses, according to the lawsuit.

In a statement, a spokesman for Uber defended the company's deal with Newark and noted that several state legislatures have passed laws governing ride-hailing companies differently than taxis.

"Our agreement with the City of Newark helps meet the overwhelming demand for affordable, reliable rides and provides expanded economic opportunity for thousands of Newark residents," he said.

A spokeswoman for Newark declined to comment on the lawsuit. Richard Wedinger, who represents the taxi associations, did not respond to a request for comment.

The city's deal with Uber requires the company to pay $10 million for the right to operate at Newark Liberty International Airport for the next 10 years. Uber also agreed to provide $1.5 million in liability coverage, conduct background checks of each driver and enforce a no-tolerance drug and alcohol abuse policy.

Newark joins several other regions across the country facing legal action from taxi operators angered by disparate regulations affecting cabs and ride-hailing companies.

Chicago, New York, Miami-Dade County and Boston are also currently embroiled in Uber-related lawsuits.

Marisa Iati may be reached at miati@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Marisa_Iati. Find NJ.com on Facebook.