Senate Passes Measure to Expedite Ride-Sharing Availability

The New York State Senate today passed a bill that would accelerate the availability of ride-sharing outside of New York City, creating new jobs and offering more safe, reliable transportation options during a peak holiday period. The bill (S5814), sponsored by Senator Ranzenhofer (R-C-I, Amherst), would allow ride-sharing to be available for Fourth of July celebrations.  

Senator Ranzenhofer said, “Getting ride-sharing services up and running across Upstate New York by the Fourth of July is one step closer to a reality. Accelerating this safe, reliable transportation option will make our roads safer and save lives during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Today's passage is another sign that the bill continues to gain momentum. I look forward to its passage in the State Assembly.” 

Senator James L. Seward, Chairman of the Senate's Insurance Committee and co-sponsor of the bill said, “Bringing ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to the balance of the state will be a major plus, offering economic, environmental and public safety benefits.  Giving ride-sharing companies the green light 10 days early in time for the Fourth of July weekend, when tourism traffic and holiday celebrations will be at their peak, could be a true lifesaver.”

Senator George Amedore, co-sponsor of the bill, said, “New Yorkers have waited long enough – let’s make ride-sharing available now. Moving up the implantation date to allow our Upstate communities to take advantage of this long-overdue service sooner will help increase public safety as we approach the busy summer travel months and holiday weekends.”

The Senate led legislative efforts to authorize ride-sharing outside of New York City, and succeeded with the passage of the budget last month. This bill would change the effective date included in the budget - accelerating it by 10 days to make ride-sharing available as early as June 29, 2017. Taking this step will make roadways safer and save lives by offering an alternative to driving for those consuming alcohol while celebrating the founding of our nation. It will also speed up economic benefits by creating more jobs and by offering New Yorkers and tourists a new transportation option.

The bill was sent to the Assembly.