California Senator Ben Hueso may not like how transportation companies like Uber and Lyft are operating in his state, but he may want to use those services the next time he goes out drinking.
On Thursday, Hueso — whose brothers own cab companies — voted in favor of a bill that would impose several new regulations on companies like Uber, Lyft, and Sidecar. Then, as noted by CalNewsroom, Hueso was caught drunk driving the very next day.
While Hueso’s fellow partying politicians took cabs home, the 44-year-old Democrat decided to drive his own car. Uber CEO Travis Kalanick tweeted that “you just can’t make this stuff up”:
You just can't make this stuff up – https://t.co/oyUg117kfZ – CA Senator votes to kill @uber and arrested for DUI just hours later
— travis kalanick (@travisk) August 25, 2014
Uber has touted its service as one that helps reduce DUI rates in cities, although the company’s calculations are suspect. Still, it’s clear that having more late-night transportation options provides a better way for those under the influence to get home safely.
But Uber, Lyft, and Sidecar could see their business take a hit in California depending on how lawmakers vote this week. One bill would require stronger insurance requirements, while another would force the companies to take part in a statewide DMV program, restrict them from hiring drivers with credit card fraud, and have their drivers submit to a state Justice Department background check, among other requirements.
Related: Uber, Lyft not a top priority for Portland leaders, official says
