Proposed Ride Share Pricing Bill Pulled By Author

A bill filed in the Oklahoma House that would increase prices on rideshare customers to fund new programs to end drinking and driving has been pulled. 

House Bill 1143 was asking rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft to create a new charge during “surge pricing” hours.

According to the bill’s text, added cost would have been a 20 percent increase on surge pricing. Surge pricing normally happens on the weekends or during peak times, like sporting events or concerts.

The bill's author, Representative Merelyn Bell, House District 45, released the following statement after pulling it:

“I want to thank the constituents of House District 45 for the calls, comments, messages, and emails over the last 48 hours regarding House Bill 1143. I encourage communication with my office, regardless of whether it’s positive or negative.

The intent of HB1143 was to partner with rideshare companies to help make Oklahoma’s roads safer. Unfortunately, as some of my constituents have pointed out, the bill has some unintended consequences. Due to their concerns and further research, I have decided to pull the legislation.

I look forward to continuing to learn and grow in my new role in the Oklahoma House of Representatives and I appreciate you being along for the ride.”