Stefanie Sass, Public Affairs Manager for the Southwest at Uber Technologies Inc., said that House Bill 26-1273, which would limit transportation network companies to retaining no more than 20 percent of fares, may force Uber and Lyft to dramatically increase prices simply to cover the cost of government mandated insurance.
The proposed bill could impact both household budgets and driver earnings across Colorado. The measure is under consideration by state legislators and has drawn attention from industry representatives who say it may alter pricing dynamics and workforce participation. Sass said, “Legislators must consider the real-world impact on household budgets and driver earnings before passing this bill. This proposal risks making Uber a luxury rather than a needed affordable option, with the potential to double ride costs for everyone, including those who need it most. Further, drivers in the state already make just under $35 per utilized hour. To protect the affordability that Coloradans depend on – and the earning opportunities drivers rely on – the state should study the long-term consequences on livelihoods before moving forward.”
Estimates from Talent.com show average Uber driver earnings in the Denver area were around $28 per hour. This level reflects independent contractor status and variable demand across Colorado regions. Shifts in fee structures could require reevaluation to maintain service levels without disproportionate burdens on users or providers, according to Talent.com.
Data from Indeed shows Uber drivers in Colorado earn an average of $22.57 per hour as independent contractors. This rate includes time spent both on trips and awaiting requests in markets such as Denver. Rideshare options remain widely used in the state, particularly in suburban and rural areas where alternative transit options may be limited. Changes to these earning structures could affect driver availability and pricing statewide, according to Indeed.
Sass has more than 12 years of experience in government and political roles, including prior service as chief of staff to the chief operating officer of Miami-Dade County. Her background includes work in congressional affairs and transportation policy, according to her LinkedIn profile.
