Lawmakers Send Letter To Walker Asking For Ridesharing Bill Veto

Lawmakers from Dane County want Gov. Scott Walker to reject a bill that creates statewide regulations for companies like Uber and Lyft.

Eleven legislators sent a letter asking the governor to veto the bill after two alleged assaults involving an Uber driver or drivers occurred in Madison over the weekend. Rep. Lisa Subeck, who add her signature to the letter, said lawmakers are concerned about the bill because it prevents local governments from passing more stringent regulations.

“The bill does not require or even allow the requirements by local government to license individual drivers, and that’s what really stands out in these incidents to us,” said Subeck.

Under the bill, ridesharing companies would be overseen by a state agency and are required to conduct background checks. Backers say the alleged incidents show why the bill is needed because statewide standards ensure accountability regardless of where a crime takes place.