Summary: Due to a Senate vote on Tuesday, Uber will no longer be allowed to operate in the state of Kansas.
On Tuesday, Uber promptly stopped offering its services in Kansas. State lawmakers voted to override Governor Sam Brownback’s veto of a new transportation bill that enacted new regulations on ride-hailing companies. According to the Huffington Post, in a statement, Uber said, “Following the Kansas legislature’s vote to override Governor Brownback’s veto of SB 117, Uber has ceased operations throughout the state. We’re saddened by the loss of hundreds of jobs, safe rides and transportation choice for consumers in Kansas.”
Uber has also been sued for refusing to allow guide dogs to ride in their vehicles.
The Kansas Senate voted 34-5 to override the veto of the bill. In response, Brownback said, “As I said when I vetoed this bill, Kansas should be known as a state that welcomes and embraces innovation and the economic growth that comes with it. Over-regulation of businesses discourages investment and harms the open and free marketplace. Uber, and other innovative businesses, should be encouraged to operate, grow and create jobs here in Kansas.”
In December, an Uber driver was arrested in New Delhi for allegedly raping a passenger.
Under SB-117, drivers who worked for ride-hailing companies, such as Uber, would have to pass Kansas Bureau of Investigation background checks, and purchase auto insurance policies beyond what Uber provided. According to Engadget, Uber argued that the insurance requirements in the bill make it “impossible” to conduct business in the state.
The CEO of Uber was indicted by South Korean officials.
Roughly 800 drivers in 10 cities in Kansas were affected. Just last month, Time reported that Uber was celebrating an agreement with the city council of Kansas City.
Source: Huffington Post
Photo credit: Huffington Post