Ride-Sharing Giants Fund Legal Defense for Drivers Under Texas Abortion Ban
Uber and Lyft pledge to cover all legal fees for drivers sued under Texas's strict new abortion law. The companies also express strong opposition to the legislation that puts drivers at risk for transporting women to clinics.
Uber and Lyft commit to paying the legal fees of any drivers who face lawsuits under Texas's new abortion law. The state's legislation bans abortions after approximately six weeks of pregnancy and allows private citizens to sue anyone who aids a person seeking an abortion in violation of the law.
This unique legal structure puts ride-share drivers directly at risk of expensive litigation simply for transporting passengers to reproductive health clinics. Lyft CEO John Zimmer states that the law unfairly pits citizens against citizens and creates an unacceptable situation where drivers do not know if they are breaking the law by giving someone a ride.
Both companies formally announce their defense funds on social media, with Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi agreeing to match Lyft's policy. In addition to covering legal costs, Lyft plans to donate one million dollars to Planned Parenthood to help ensure that transportation remains available to women seeking healthcare appointments.