Valdamar Archuleta, a former candidate for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District, said that Uber is prepared to remove Colorado from its app if House Bill 1291 becomes law. He expressed confidence that Lyft is similarly prepared to take action against what he described as burdensome regulations.
“I have a friend who’s a big dog at Uber,” said Archuleta. “He told me they already have the code written and in place to remove Colorado from the app. And hes sure Lyft does as well.”
According to a press release from Colorado’s 1st District GOP, Uber has warned of a potential shutdown in the state due to HB 1291. The bill includes requirements such as mandatory audio/video recordings and frequent background checks, which Uber claims are costly and burdensome. The legislation, supported by Democratic lawmakers, aims to enhance safety but exempts taxis and shuttles from many of these regulations. Business leaders and rideshare advocates argue that the bill represents government overreach, threatening jobs, privacy, and access to essential services. Having passed the House, the bill now awaits Senate action.
Colorado’s HB 1291 has ignited debate with Uber threatening to exit the state if it becomes law. The bill was initially prompted by a lawmaker’s personal experience of assault and has since been revised. While some controversial provisions have been removed, it still requires semiannual background checks and allows riders legal recourse in cases of assault or injury. Both Uber and Lyft oppose the bill due to high compliance costs and potential legal issues.
Uber and Lyft have called on Governor Jared Polis to veto HB 1291. Lyft joined Uber in opposing the legislation through a letter highlighting concerns about private rights of action and vague language that does not apply uniformly across ride services. Both companies object particularly to data-sharing provisions involving driver information.
An analysis by the Common Sense Institute of Colorado indicates significant negative economic impacts from HB 1291. With approximately 34,900 rideshare drivers earning an estimated $745 million annually, the sector plays a crucial role in employment and consumer mobility. The bill’s mandates could result in significant job losses and economic decline by 2030.
Archuleta is a Denver native who ran unopposed in the 2024 GOP primary for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District. He serves as president of the Log Cabin Republicans of Colorado and is known for advocating inclusive conservatism.
