Uber is warning it may shut down operations in Colorado if a new rider safety bill becomes law.
House Bill 25-1291 aims to boost protections for users of transportation network companies (TNCs). It passed the Colorado House of Representatives on April 16 in a bipartisan 59–6 vote.
The bill requires drivers to undergo criminal background checks every six months. It would also mandate that rides be audio and video recorded.
After clearing the House, the bill moved to the Senate Committee on Business, Labor, & Technology. On Tuesday, it was narrowly advanced to the Committee of the Whole in a 4–3 vote. A full Senate review is expected Friday.
Uber strongly opposes the legislation. The company says the bill would invade user privacy and place costly burdens on its operations.
“HB25-1291 is a deeply flawed proposal, which if implemented could leave us no choice but cease operations in Colorado.
“It 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,” an Uber spokesperson told KKTV11.
The Colorado Sun reported that Uber is also worried the bill could lead to lawsuits over minor driver actions—such as offering passengers snacks or drinks.
Another concern is a provision that would require Uber to reimburse drivers for audio and video recording equipment.
Uber has made similar threats before in response to regulations. In 2024, Uber and Lyft said they would exit Minneapolis after the city passed a law raising driver wages.
However, both companies stayed after Minnesota lawmakers approved a compromise bill with more moderate pay increases.
As the Colorado Senate prepares to vote, Uber’s warning highlights the ongoing push-pull between tech platforms and lawmakers aiming to tighten safety standards.
(Fox News)
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then