An Uber spokesperson has expressed concerns over Colorado House Bill 1291, urging Governor Jared Polis to veto the legislation. The bill aims to introduce stricter safety protocols for rideshare companies following a high-profile incident involving its sponsor. It mandates twice-yearly background checks for drivers and allows optional in-vehicle audio and video recording with mutual consent. Despite amendments, both Uber and Lyft argue that the bill imposes costly and ineffective requirements.
"HB 1291, as written, undermines proven safety practices, clashes with federal law, and adds costly burdens without making Colorado riders or drivers safer," said Uber Spokesperson. "We're urging a veto so we can work toward real solutions that protect people without compromising reliability or affordability."
According to Jerry Golden, Lyft’s Chief Policy Officer, "We remain committed to continuing this important dialogue and working together to identify common-sense solutions to make rideshare even safer," but he warned that the bill could harm those it seeks to protect and leave "the future of Lyft’s operations in Colorado uncertain."
Uber's 2022 U.S. Safety Report disclosed 2,707 reports of sexual assault during rides between 2019 and 2020. The company said these figures represent a 38% drop from prior reporting periods, attributing the decrease to safety feature upgrades such as audio recording pilots and real-time support. However, the volume of incidents continues to fuel public and legislative concern regarding rider protections. This data has been used by both supporters and critics of HB1291 as evidence of the need for effective safety reforms.
Colorado's rideshare sector has seen rapid growth, with nearly 50,000 active drivers as of 2025, making it a key market for companies like Uber and Lyft. Industry leaders contend that HB1291 would introduce operational uncertainties that could force them to scale back or halt services, particularly in rural areas where regulatory costs are harder to absorb. Critics also warn that burdensome new rules could deter prospective drivers, exacerbate wait times, and limit transportation access for residents. According to CPR News, the industry's pushback reflects concerns about both the bill's cost and its unintended consequences.
Founded in 2009, Uber Technologies Inc., headquartered in San Francisco, is a global mobility and technology company offering services including ride-hailing, food delivery (Uber Eats), freight, and autonomous vehicle development. In Colorado, Uber operates under the classification of a Transportation Network Company (TNC), regulated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.