Senator Bonacic Votes in Favor of Legislation to Bring Ride-Sharing and Economic Benefits to Upstate New York

(Albany, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) joined with a majority of his Senate colleagues in voting yes on legislation that will bring ride-sharing to upstate communities and improve local economies. The bill, S.4159, would provide the framework for ride-sharing companies to expand operations outside of New York City and enable new jobs to be created by offering more safe, reliable transportation to upstate residents and visitors.

“The vast majority or my constituents live in rural areas of New York State where transportation options are limited,” said Senator Bonacic. “I’m pleased to support this legislation which will serve a dual purpose of providing New Yorkers with additional transportation options, and also provide jobs to those living in upstate.”

The bill includes protections for both drivers and consumers as part of a regulatory framework authorizing Transportation Network Companies (TNC) like Uber and Lyft to operate in upstate communities. Additionally, it requires criminal and driving history background checks, passenger notifications of driver information and trip charges, and the adoption of non-discrimination and zero-tolerance and alcohol policies.