LIHUE >> A group of Kauai cab drivers allege in a lawsuit that the state is allowing unregulated transportation providers to pick up passengers at Lihue Airport.

The cab drivers and cab companies are suing the state Department of Transportation. They claim some providers are picking up passengers without paying a $150 monthly state fee.

Department spokeswoman Caroline Sluyter declined to comment on pending litigation.

The Garden Island reported Wednesday the suit claims the airport now allows “destination management companies” that aren’t subject to state regulations to pick up passengers.

The plaintiffs claim they are losing business because of the unfair pickup practices and that airport workers retaliate when a cab driver complains.