Uber announced on April 24 that it applauded Virginia officials for finalizing rideshare safety legislation that strengthens identity verification and background checks for drivers.
The company said the Virginia law could serve as a model for other states, including Colorado, as lawmakers there revisit rideshare safety proposals following a recent veto. The legislation is intended to improve safety standards in the ridesharing industry by accelerating technology adoption and establishing uniform background check requirements.
According to a report from The Center Square, the Virginia General Assembly removed a reenactment clause from House Bill 1273, sponsored by Delegate Jackie Glass, and advanced House Bill 1469, sponsored by Delegate Lily Franklin. The report said the actions by lawmakers and the governor moved forward safety technology requirements, identity verification standards, and background check rules for transportation network companies operating in the state.
Virginia is home to about 222,000 app-based workers who rely on ridesharing platforms for flexible income. These workers make up nearly 5% of the state’s workforce and support local transportation services for residents and visitors, according to a Chamber of Progress document. The new legislation is described as supporting continued growth and stability in the sector.
Ridesharing services have been associated with a 5.2% reduction in overall traffic fatalities nationwide, according to research cited by the Colorado Department of Transportation. That estimate corresponds to roughly 627 lives saved in 2019, with platforms providing an alternative transportation option linked to improved road safety outcomes.
Uber Technologies, Inc. operates ride-hailing services in about 70 countries and more than 15,000 cities worldwide. The company facilitates millions of trips daily through its app and works with drivers and regulators on safety initiatives and platform operations.
