Gabe Evans, the representative for Colorado’s 8th District, expressed concerns over new rideshare regulations, suggesting they could drive companies out of the state due to excessive oversight. He made these remarks on X.
"Colorado Democrats have gotten so power hungry that they're driving businesses out of our state," said Evans, Congressman. "It's simple: Their over-regulation is anti-business."
In April 2025, Uber warned it might exit Colorado if the proposed Transportation Network Company (TNC) Consumer Protection Bill becomes law, according to The Colorado Sun. The bill mandates audio and video recording of all rides, public disclosure of rider and driver comments, and establishes a private right of action for riders. An Uber spokeswoman said, "We support real, evidence-based safety policy: not legislation that checks a box but fails to deliver… this bill not only misses the mark — it risks doing more harm than good." Uber argues that the bill unfairly targets rideshare companies while exempting taxis and shuttles.
According to Uber’s 2024 U.S. Safety Report, 99.9998% of rides concluded without serious incidents, with reported sexual assaults decreasing by 44% since the company began publishing safety data. Uber has invested in features allowing users to share trips with trusted contacts, contact emergency services through the app, and access round-the-clock support. The company also requires drivers to complete mandatory sexual misconduct education and has partnered with the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network.
As reported by CBS News, Uber threatened to cease operations in most of Minnesota in 2023 after lawmakers passed a bill significantly increasing costs for rideshare companies. Lyft issued similar warnings. Governor Tim Walz ultimately vetoed the legislation due to concerns about reduced transportation access and economic impacts on drivers. Uber's announced withdrawal was cited as a major influence on his decision.
Evans has served Colorado’s 8th Congressional District since January 2025. Born July 28, 1986, in Aurora, Colorado, he has a background in military and law enforcement as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot and police officer in Arvada. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Patrick Henry College in 2009. In Congress, Evans serves on the Energy and Commerce and Homeland Security committees with a focus on energy policy, emergency management, and counterterrorism. His legislative interests include immigration reform, national security, and support for law enforcement agencies.