New Bill Aims to Enhance Ride-Share Safety and Privacy

On Wednesday, Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) rolled out a new bill focused on improving passenger safety and privacy in ride-sharing vehicles.

The proposed legislation, titled Safe and Personal Vehicle Methods, seeks to ensure that passengers are informed if the driver is using a video recording device. The bill mandates that transport network companies notify passengers about any such devices in the vehicle.

If the bill becomes law, passengers will also have the choice to opt-out of rides with drivers who have dash cams installed.

Senator Blackburn has voiced concerns about the lack of clarity regarding dashcam usage in ride-sharing apps, suggesting it could infringe on passenger privacy. She emphasizes that millions of Americans use these services daily.

“Passengers deserve to know when they are being recorded, and shouldn’t have to compromise their privacy rights as soon as they enter a ride-sharing vehicle,” Blackburn noted in a statement.

The legislation would empower the Federal Trade Commission to enforce these transparency requirements, according to Blackburn’s office.

“Those utilizing ride-sharing services deserve to feel secure about their digital privacy during their journey, including being aware of video recording before they even get in the car,” Welch added.

While ride-share drivers commonly use technology and dash cams for security, Blackburn’s office indicated that some drivers may share footage online without passenger consent.

In a 2018 report, some Uber and Lyft drivers revealed methods for recording and live-streaming passenger rides on platforms like Twitch, using expensive cameras. Incidents of sharing personal details about passengers were noted in reports, including from the New York Times.

Blackburn’s office stated that while ride-sharing companies provide convenience and innovation, it is crucial for passengers to have control over their privacy decisions.

Tennessee Republicans have long supported measures to enhance online privacy for users. Blackburn has been vocal in her criticism of major tech companies accused of sidelining user safety and privacy, especially for younger individuals. Recently, she co-introduced the Kids Online Safety Act to compel online platforms to better protect minors.