Prohibits a person under the age of sixteen (16) from being in a rideshare vehicle such as Uber or Lyft alone.
Impact
If enacted, HB 5589 will directly affect the practices of rideshare companies operating within the state. By enforcing this restriction, the law will likely necessitate changes in how these companies manage bookings and verify the age of passengers. It also underscores a heightened awareness regarding child safety in modern transportation scenarios, which could lead other states to consider similar legislation.
Summary
House Bill 5589 aims to prohibit individuals under the age of sixteen from using rideshare vehicles, such as Uber and Lyft, when traveling alone. The legislation seeks to enhance the safety of minors by preventing them from utilizing these services without adult supervision. This is a response to growing concerns about child safety in transportation options that operate independently of traditional oversight tactics typically employed in other modes of public transport.
Contention
One notable point of contention related to HB 5589 is the enforcement mechanism outlined in the bill. Law enforcement officers are authorized to intervene if they encounter an underage passenger traveling alone in a rideshare vehicle. However, no fines or formal records will be kept for violations, which raises questions about the practical implications of enforcing such a prohibition. Critics might argue that the responsibility should fall more on parents and guardians rather than punitive measures aimed at rideshare companies.
Imposes a seventy-five cent (0.75) surcharge on fares charged by rideshare companies as well as an account to benefit RIPTA from the payment of sales taxes collected from rideshares.
Imposes a seventy-five cent (0.75) surcharge on fares charged by rideshare companies as well as an account to benefit RIPTA from the payment of sales taxes collected from rideshares.
HOUSE RESOLUTION CREATING A SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION TO STUDY THE MANNER IN WHICH HEALTH INSURANCE, DISABILITY INSURANCE, UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE, RETIREMENT PLANS AND OTHER TRADITIONAL EMPLOYER PROVIDED BENEFITS ARE ACCORDED TO UBER AND LYFT DRIVERS, SELF EMPLOYED INDIVIDUALS, AND OTHER INDIVIDUALS ENGAGED IN PROVIDING SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC (This resolution creates a 5 member commission to study various insurance and benefit plans provided to Uber, Lyft, and self-employed drivers, and would report back by January 5, 2025, and expire on March 5, 2025.)
Prohibits the release of customers personal information compiled by the department of motor vehicles to any private company, nonprofit organization or third-party vendor.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist’s hand.
Prevents insurance companies from treating widowed persons differently than married persons when establishing or maintaining an insured's rate or classification respecting the operation of a personal motor vehicle. Effective 1/1/25.