(JEFFERSON CITY) – Legislators recently introduced a pair of bills that would create thousands of new economic opportunities for Missourians through ridesharing. The bills, sponsored by Rep. Kirk Mathews (R-Pacific) and Sen. Bob Onder (R-Lake Saint Louis), would establish statewide regulations for ridesharing services like Uber, paving the way for new growth and investment.
If enacted, the legislation is expected to create thousands of new economic opportunities to drive with rideshare companies like Uber while improving safety in Missouri communities by discouraging drunk driving. The bill will also increase transportation access in underserved areas, as well encourage as more investment in new products. The proposed bills are similar to laws enacted in 28 states across America, including Illinois, Ohio, Kansas, Wisconsin and Indiana.
“This jobs bill will help ensure Missouri competes in the 21st century economy,” said Rep. Kirk Mathews (R-Pacific). “We need to be opening the door to more economic opportunities, innovation and investment in Missouri from tech companies like Uber.”
“More people working will make Missouri’s economic future more prosperous and that’s what this legislation is about,” said Sen. Bob Onder (R-Lake Saint Louis). “By giving more people from all walks of life the power to work on demand, we can make Missouri’s economic future even brighter.”
As written, the legislation establishes a statewide standard for Transportation Network Companies (TNC) regulations, and streamlines the permitting process so that all TNC drivers must be approved by the Missouri Department of Revenue before operating in the state. In addition, the bills set high safety standards for all TNCs, protect riders with end-to-end insurance requirements and ensure transparency for fees and payments through electronic receipts containing ride details.
The bills are House Bill 2330 and Senate Bill 991.
