Uber Threatens Colorado Exit Over Rideshare Safety Bill
DENVER (Archyde.com) — Rideshare giant Uber is threatening to pull out of Colorado if a bill aimed at improving rideshare safety becomes law,sparking a heated debate over passenger protection and driver privacy.
House Bill 25-1291, championed by state Rep.Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, proposes sweeping changes to rideshare operations in the state. The bill seeks to mandate audio and video recordings of all trips, prohibit drivers from offering passengers refreshments, require more extensive background checks, and mandate tracking and reporting of violent incidents.
Bill stemmed From lawmaker’s Alleged Assault
The legislation was introduced in January 2025, months after Willford filed a lawsuit against Lyft alleging she was sexually assaulted in February 2024 by an individual impersonating a rideshare driver.That incident, FBI data shows, sadly echoes a larger trend. A 2023 FBI report revealed a concerning rise in sexual assault reports within the transportation sector, including ridesharing services, over the past decade.
Uber’s Stance: Privacy Concerns and Operational Burdens
Uber, in an emailed statement obtained by Archyde.com, condemned the bill as “a deeply flawed proposal, which if implemented would leave us no choice but cease operations in Colorado.”
The company argues that HB25-1291 “threatens user privacy by requiring every trip to be recorded, imposes major technical and financial burdens, and offers no clear safety benefit in return. We support real, evidence-based safety policy – not legislation that checks a box but fails to deliver,” Uber said in the statement.”As written, this bill not only misses the mark, it risks doing more harm than good.”
Willford Responds: Uber Prioritizing profits Over Safety
Willford has characterized Uber’s threat to exit Colorado as a “cynical and disheartening move by a multi-billion dollar company to turn their back on survivors rather than implement real safety measures,” according to a statement posted to her Instagram account.
“We have worked with Uber in good faith for months and accepted many of their amendment requests – including a full rewrite of the bill,” the statement continued.”For years, Uber has checked the box on safety, but time after time failed to deliver for victims.”
“It’s clear uber won’t stand up for safety so they can continue to maximize profits rather than address the horrible incidents that change the lives of riders and drivers forever,” Willford stated.
Uber Defends Its Safety Record
In its statement, Uber asserted it has “led the industry on safety from day one – backed by technology, transparency, and real accountability.” The company highlights features such as audio and video recording capabilities, RideCheck, and an Emergency button within its app.
Uber’s Record My Ride feature allows drivers to record video using their smartphone’s front-facing camera, functioning similarly to a dashcam.According to Uber,this feature has been available in the U.S. since last year. Audio recording is also an option for both riders and drivers during trips.
The Emergency Button within the app, when activated, provides 911 dispatchers with the car’s make, model, license plate, and GPS location, according to Uber’s website.
Counter Argument
It’s understandable that any company would resist legislation that imposes notable financial and operational burdens. Uber’s argument that mandatory recording could deter riders and drivers, exacerbating existing driver shortages, also holds weight. Though, the paramount concern must be passenger safety, and the potential benefits of increased accountability through recording should be carefully weighed against privacy considerations.
legislative Status and Potential Impact
The Colorado Sun reports that the bill passed the House by a 59-6 vote earlier this month and is now awaiting a hearing on the Senate floor. The legislative session is scheduled to end on May 7.
If HB25-1291 becomes law, Colorado would be at the forefront of rideshare safety regulations in the U.S. Other states are closely monitoring the situation, and the outcome in Colorado could set a precedent for similar legislation nationwide.
FAQ: Rideshare Safety in the U.S.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What safety measures do rideshare companies offer? | Most major rideshare companies offer features like emergency buttons, ride tracking, and the ability to share trip details with trusted contacts. Some also offer audio/video recording options. |
| What can I do to stay safe during a rideshare? | Verify the driver and car match the app, share your trip details with a friend or family member, sit in the back seat, and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, end the ride promptly. |
| How do rideshare companies screen their drivers? | Rideshare companies typically conduct background checks that include criminal history and driving record reviews. Though, the thoroughness of these checks can vary. |
| Are rideshare companies liable for driver misconduct? | Liability in cases of driver misconduct is a complex legal issue that depends on the specific circumstances and local laws. Consult with an attorney for advice. |
| What are the risks of ridesharing? | Risks include accidents, assault, and robbery.While ridesharing provides convenient transport, passengers should stay cautious and prioritize their safety. |
