Colorado Lawmakers Urge Governor to Sign Rideshare Safety Bill Amid Uber Exit Threat

Colorado lawmakers passed House Bill 25-1291 to strengthen safety regulations for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft, prompted by numerous sexual assault incidents, including one involving Representative Jenny Willford. The bill mandates semiannual background checks for drivers, requires companies to deactivate drivers accused of assault, and allows riders to sue for incidents involving sexual assault, death, or injury. Despite multiple amendments that removed more contentious provisions, such as mandatory audio and video recordings of rides, Uber has threatened to cease operations in Colorado if the bill becomes law, citing concerns over privacy, federal conflicts, and implementation challenges. Lyft has criticized the bill for making safety worse in some respects, although it has not threatened to leave the state. Governor Jared Polis is reviewing the bill, weighing its potential impact and concerns raised by rideshare companies. Advocates, including Willford, emphasize the need for stronger safety measures and criticize Uber's threats as prioritizing profits over rider safety.