U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Peter Welch have introduced the Safe and Private Rides Act, a new bill aimed at safeguarding the privacy of rideshare passengers. The legislation mandates that transportation network companies (TNCs) must inform passengers if their driver is using a video recording device in the vehicle. Passengers would also be given the option to opt out of riding with drivers who use dashcams.
Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of passenger privacy, stating, “Passengers shouldn’t have to sacrifice their right to privacy the moment they step into a rideshare vehicle, and they deserve to know when they are being recorded.” She added that the act would enhance transparency while ensuring both driver safety and passenger privacy.
Senator Welch highlighted the widespread reliance on rideshare services across the country for various needs such as medical appointments, work commutes, or travel to airports. He remarked, “Folks using rideshare services deserve to have peace of mind about their digital privacy during a ride, which includes knowing if they will be filmed before calling a ride.”
The backdrop for this legislative proposal is an increasing use of rideshare services in America, with projected profits expected to reach $54 billion annually by 2027. While many drivers employ dashcams for personal safety reasons, these devices can pose privacy concerns for passengers. There have been instances where footage captured by drivers was released online without consent.
The Safe and Private Rides Act aims to strike a balance between allowing drivers to protect themselves with technology and granting passengers control over their privacy choices. It requires TNCs not only to notify passengers about recording devices but also allows them the choice to decline such rides. Additionally, it grants enforcement authority to the Federal Trade Commission regarding these transparency measures.
