Illinois House Passes New Ridesharing Bill

New legislation regulating drivers in the emerging ridesharing industry is advancing in the Illinois Legislature.

The House Wednesday approved legislation, SB2774, that creates statewide regulations for drivers working for ridesharing services connecting passengers with drivers who use personal vehicles to give rides. It includes modified insurance requirements, background checks and a zero-tolerance policy on drugs and alcohol.

Democratic state Rep. Mike Zalewski of Riverside is sponsoring the legislation. He originally planned to call for an override of Gov. Pat Quinn’s veto on earlier ridesharing bills.

The taxi industry supported the initial bills, claiming ridesharing companies skirt regulations.

Zalewski agreed to work with ridesharing companies as he drafted the new legislation. That includes Uber, which opposed earlier efforts.

The measure now heads to the Senate.