Lawmakers, investors and a California measure press Uber over sexual assaults

Uber is facing mounting scrutiny across the United States as lawmakers, investors and a California ballot initiative move to hold the ride-hailing company accountable for a pattern of sexual violence during rides. In California, a proposed ballot initiative would make ride-hailing companies legally responsible for sexual misconduct and assault against drivers and passengers.

On Wall Street, the New York State comptroller is leading a shareholder push for Uber’s board to release a "transparency report" detailing its oversight of passenger safety. In Washington, Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan sent a letter to Uber’s chief executive denouncing the company for prioritizing its "bottom line" over safety and said she wanted to hold a congressional hearing and explore legislation.

All three actions cite New York Times reporting that found Uber received a report of sexual assault or sexual misconduct in the United States almost every eight minutes on average between 2017 and 2022, far more than the company has publicly disclosed, and that Uber executives repeatedly prioritized expanding the business over stronger protections.

The Times also reported that Uber's background checks approved drivers with many types of criminal convictions and that the company allowed drivers with records of complaints to keep driving until passengers accused them of serious sexual assault.

Key Topics

Business, Uber, California Initiative, Debbie Dingell, Dara Khosrowshahi, Phoenix Trial