Gov. Kay Ivey and supporters at the March 1, 2018 statewide ridesharing bill signing ceremony. The law goes into effect on Sunday, July 1. (Office of Gov. Kay Ivey)
MONTGOMERY – Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced that statewide ridesharing is effective beginning July 1, 2018. Statewide ridesharing received approval from both the Alabama Senate and House and, on March 1, 2018, was signed into law by Ivey. This allows companies like Lyft and Uber to operate regardless of location or proximity to major metropolitan areas.
“Alabamians in all areas of our state now have the option to enjoy the many benefits of ridesharing, including opportunities for those looking to make extra income; increased economic activity for local businesses, cities and towns; and the expansion of safe, affordable transportation options,” Ivey said. “I was pleased to have a part in bringing this much-needed service statewide and look forward to watching these platforms grow in the years to come.”
Previously, ridesharing companies were allowed to operate only in select cities in Alabama. Suburban and rural areas will now have access to innovative transportation methods, and more residents will have the opportunity to earn additional income through these expanded opportunities.
“This is a great day for individuals around the state of Alabama — for drivers and passengers — as they can now experience the various benefits of ridesharing, including having access to responsible and reliable transportation statewide,” Jake Darby, general manager for Lyft, said. “Governor Ivey played an instrumental role in bringing this law to fruition, as did our regulator the Alabama Public Service Commission, and we are excited that a new chapter officially begins today.”
Rep. David Faulkner and Sen. Bobby Singleton championed the effort to pass the bipartisan ridesharing bill, which passed unanimously (28-0) in the Senate and 97-3 in the House — and signed on Gov. Ivey’s desk within 11 days of introduction in the Legislature. With assistance from the Alabama Public Service Commission and staff, the bill is going into effect within just months of being signed.
Throughout the legislative process, statewide ridesharing was supported publicly by the Ride for Alabama coalition, comprised of multiple Chambers of Commerce and third-party entities, such as the Alabama Hospitality and Restaurant Association, Birmingham Urban League, Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, the Alabama Black Chamber of Commerce and the Alabama Association for the Deaf, among others.
Alabama becomes the 45th state to welcome comprehensive ridesharing. Governor Ivey encourages all Alabamians to take advantage of ridesharing during their summer festivities and throughout the year.
