Representatives of Rideshare Companies Push for Oregon Regulations

Representatives for ridesharing companies Uber and Lyft are pushing a bill that would ensure the state of Oregon regulates them instead of individual cities.

The Eugene Register-Guard reported representatives said at a hearing this week that the bill would set statewide rules for the companies that would allow them to expand to cities such as Eugene and Springfield, where they are not currently operating.

Local governments such as the city of Eugene have voiced opposition to House Bill 3246, which would reverse their authority over taxis and ridesharing services.

Under the bill, drivers for companies such as Lyft and Uber are considered independent contractors instead of employees. Those employers don’t have to pay payroll taxes, compensate drivers at minimum wage, or provide them with benefits and workers’ compensation insurance.

Eighteen Democrat and Republican lawmakers are sponsoring the bill.

Related:

• Oregon Cities Are Considering Clearing Way for Uber
• New Rules to Govern Taxis, Uber, Lyft Approved by Oregon City
• Rules Drive Uber Ridesharing Service Out Of Oregon City
• Uber Close to Return in Oregon City With Regulations
• City Council in Oregon Says Uber Must Follow Traditional Taxi Rules