What's going on?

With a click of a button, a car is on its way to pick you up and you get a map of exactly when the car will arrive. The cost is relatively cheap, and all of the drivers have background checks so you know you are in good hands. Already know what I am describing? That's because Uber has become a well-known sensation across the country and has recently spread its wings in Pennsylvania. Here's something I bet you did not know—Uber does not have a permanent residence in Pennsylvania yet. However, in the coming weeks, the Senate and House of Representatives are taking a vote to pass legislation that would implement common sense regulations for Pennsylvania, giving Uber a permanent home!

How can you help?

Uber has an online petition running that allows Uber-lovers to sign with their name, email, ZIP code, and reason why Uber should stay.

Uber provides safety measures. The company has an overarching set of rules for drivers including mandatory detailed background checks, and $1 million of insurance on every ride. There is also a button on the App that allows riders to share their location with a friend, which allocates for additional safety.

Also, Uber has created a revolution in transportation by promoting ridesharing across the Commonwealth. It works to establish regulations for ridesharing, and also makes it easy to split fare with a friend.

Why is Uber important in Pennsylvania specifically?

Pennsylvania is home to many cities and towns that benefit from Uber including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, State College, Reading, and Lancaster. Not only is Uber advantageous for residents in these parts of Pennsylvania, but these areas also house many colleges such as Penn State, University of Pennsylvania, Franklin and Marshall College, Alvernia University, and University of Pittsburgh. College students are on a tight budget, and Uber is a cheap, fast, and convenient way to get to the market or train station.

In Philadelphia, uberX is now officially the cheapest ride with prices costing up to 55 percent less than a taxi and up to 23 percent less than other rideshare options. Uber also provides employment for many people on tight schedules. Both of my past Uber drivers in Philadelphia had schedules that they needed to work around, while also finding a way to make money. The first driver was a man who worked as a translator. His work was a very on-call type of job, so until he was called in to translate, he would drive as an Uber driver. The second driver was a cancer patient. Her chemotherapy did not allow her to hold a steady job, but she needed money to pay for her treatment. Uber allows their drivers to create their own hours, so she could drive as little or as often as she was able, based on how she was feeling that day.

Why you should sign.

Ultimately, Uber is an improved taxicab. For riders, it is safe, and it is cheap. For drivers, it allows them to make their own hours that work around busy schedules. Why wouldn't you want that in Pennsylvania? Sign the petition and get more information here!