Illinois lawmakers pass new ridesharing regulations bill

The Illinois Legislature has passed legislation regulating drivers in the emerging ridesharing industry.

Both the House and Senate Wednesday approved legislation creating 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.

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The legislation is SB2774

Online: www.ilga.gov