Governor Quinn Vetoes Uber Bill

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today vetoed House Bill 4075, also known as the "Uber bill." The bill would have imposed statewide regulations on commercial ridesharing and prevented local governments across Illinois from adopting rules that fit their respective communities. Today's action is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to protect consumers, create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.

"The principle of home rule is an important one," Governor Quinn said. "I am vetoing this legislation because it would have mandated a one-size-fits-all approach to a service that is best regulated at the local level."

While transportation services are traditionally regulated at the local government level, House Bill 4075 would have limited the ability of home rule units of government to adopt alternative approaches that best fit local needs.

For example, the city of Chicago passed an ordinance that will go into effect Aug. 26, 2014 which establishes a comprehensive set of regulations to ensure ridesharing companies maintain public safety including regulations on licensure, insurance, background checks, vehicle inspections and operating hours for drivers. The ordinance - which is in the process of being implemented - will help ensure these transportation services maintain public safety while keeping the regulation at the appropriate and traditional level of government.

Commercial ridesharing services are provided by drivers who use their personal automobiles to provide transportation services to the public. Customers use an application on their smart phones to order rides offered through these companies such as Uber X, Lyft, Sidecar and others.

Governor Quinn today also vetoed House Bill 5331, which contained related ridesharing regulations.

Related Documents
HB 4075 Veto Message (PDF)
HB 5331 Veto Message (PDF)