Gabe Evans, the representative for Colorado's 8th Congressional District, said that Democrats are over-regulating businesses and driving companies out of the state. He shared this statement in a post on X.
"Colorado Democrats have gotten so power hungry that they're driving businesses out of our state," said Evans, Congressman. "Their over-regulation is anti-business."
A new wave of legislative efforts in Colorado is sparking debate over the future of rideshare services and the broader business climate under Democratic leadership. House Bill 1129 proposes expanded oversight and safety regulations for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft. Supported by Democratic lawmakers, the bill would require companies to conduct background checks through a state agency, report safety data to the Public Utilities Commission, and remove drivers with certain criminal records. Critics argue the legislation is excessive and could drive companies out of the state, a stance reinforced by Uber's direct threat to cease operations in Colorado if the bill becomes law.
Uber’s opposition centers on the argument that Colorado’s proposed policies exceed regulations seen in other states, placing the company at a disadvantage. A spokesperson said that the law would "create unnecessary red tape," reducing driver availability and passenger access. According to The Aspen Times, Uber further warned that the bill could lead to "a drastic reduction in service" and higher prices, impacts that would be felt most acutely by Coloradans outside major metro areas.
The Colorado legislature argues that the bill enhances accountability. According to The Denver Post, supporters insist it fills regulatory gaps by requiring rideshare companies to report crash and assault data to state agencies and revoke access for drivers with specific felony convictions. However, critics warn that the regulation could encourage companies to redirect investments to more regulation-friendly states like Nevada or Texas, contributing to a broader trend of business migration.
Evans is a member of the Colorado House of Representatives, representing District 8. Before entering politics, he served as a police officer with the Arvada Police Department and as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army and Colorado National Guard. He was appointed to the Colorado legislature in 2023.