New ridesharing regulations bill advances in Illinois House

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

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

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, including those governing safety.

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