Delegates debate and reject Snohomish County-focused ride program for minors after safety and funding questions

House Bill 6.18 — a bill to create a free or low-cost ride-sharing service for minors in Snohomish County — was the subject of extended debate after delegates un-tabled the measure for consideration.

Proponent Marina Siegel described the proposal as a “free ride sharing program for minors” modeled on commercial platforms but tailored to children up to age 18, with parental sponsorship accounts, background checks “the same ones that school employees go through,” and a mix of user fees, limited tax support and grants to fund the service. Siegel said the program would prioritize safety while offering subsidies for low-income families.

Delegates pushed on key operational details: how rides would be authorized and monitored, whether parental permission would be required, minimum and maximum ages, whether car seats would be provided, and how the program differs from private-sector options such as Uber Teen. The proponent estimated user fees at roughly $1–$2 per mile and acknowledged funding could also include minimal tax funds and public–private partnerships.

Opponents and questioners raised concerns about the proposed public-facing monitoring system, implementation logistics, potential duplication of existing services and the absence of firm timelines and cost estimates. After debate and a vote, the bill did not secure passage.

Delegates who supported the bill framed it as a targeted response to safety problems they said affect Snohomish County’s youth; critics asked for clearer funding and privacy protections before authorizing a pilot.