Mike McGuire, Senate president pro tempore of the California State Senate, said that SB 371 provides 800,000 drivers with improved wages, benefits, and workplace rights while strengthening the state’s economy. This statement was made in a press release.
“For almost a decade, thousands of drivers have fought for a better life,” said McGuire. “This agreement represents one of the largest in American history – 800,000 Californians who work behind the wheel will now have a path to higher wages, health benefits, and workplace rights. This a big damn deal, uplifting workers and the Golden State’s economy.”
According to CalMatters, California’s SB 371, passed in September 2025, reduces required uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for ride-hail trips from $1,000,000 to $60,000 per person and $300,000 per incident. Lawmakers argue this will lower insurance costs that constitute nearly half of ride fares. Critics warn it shifts financial risk to riders in serious accidents.
CalMatters reports that approximately 800,000 ride-hail drivers and millions of riders in California will be affected by SB 371. Insurance costs are estimated at $6 per trip statewide and account for 45% of fares in Los Angeles. Supporters claim the measure will reduce prices for consumers; however, opponents question whether savings will materialize.
As reported by Stateline, other states have pursued different affordability and labor reforms: Massachusetts granted drivers sector-wide bargaining rights; Minnesota set minimum per-mile and per-minute pay; Washington established paid leave and minimum pay standards with industry support. California’s SB 371 instead focuses on lowering insurance costs while tying the change to unionization rights.
McGuire is the president pro tempore of the California State Senate. He was elected in 2014 after serving on a school board, city council, and the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. He became Senate majority leader in 2022 and ascended to Senate leader in 2024, prioritizing climate policy, housing, and community resilience. This information is reported by the California State Senate.
