A state lawmaker wants to require background checks for drivers with cab companies and ride sharing services, like Uber.
Currently, there is no statewide policy requiring those drivers to be screened.
State Representative Christina Hale says although some municipalities do require background checks, and some taxi companies voluntarily perform them, there is no consistency and the quality of the background checks varies greatly.
"We just want a level playing field to make sure that anywhere in Indiana, if you step into the back of a vehicle that you are paying to get you to a destination , that person has passed a national background check of quality," Hale says.
E2 Taxi owner James Mclary supports Hale's approach. He says his company has been doing state-level criminal background checks for all drivers, but he knows some companies are not doing the same.
"I personally think it would make them (riders) safer." McLary says, "I don't want to talk anybody in specific but there are certain situations that drivers are not checked, and I do not believe that is for the good of the consumer. I think all drivers should be checked."
Hale plans to unveil the legislation in January. She wants a national background check of at least the past ten years for all Uber and cab drivers.