Associated Press Published

Tomblin Signs Bill Letting Uber, Lyft Offer Rides

Uber, Lyft

Companies like Uber will be able to start offering rides in West Virginia under a new law approved by Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin.

On Tuesday, the Democrat signed the bill letting ride-booking companies operate in the state. The Republican-led Legislature passed it with only a handful of ‘no’ votes.

The law takes effect July 1.

The law applies to Uber, Lyft and similar companies that use smartphone apps to book rides.

Companies will need to have a nondiscrimination policy and comply with nondiscrimination laws.

The law requires a Division of Motor Vehicles permit, car insurance, underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage, a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy, and driver background checks.

Charleston and Morgantown have been mentioned as likely locations for companies to offer ridesharing services.