In what’s being called a “lifesaver,” ride-sharing companies like Uber could be coming to the Hudson Valley sooner than expected.

On Wednesday, the New York State Senate passed a bill to speed up the process to allow ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft to begin service before the Fourth of July, as originally planned.

“Giving ride-sharing companies the green light 10 days early in time for the Fourth of July weekend, when tourism traffic and holiday celebrations will be at their peak, could be a true lifesaver,” Senator James L. Seward said.

The bill now goes to the Assembly. If approved, the Hudson Valley could be using Uber and Lyft by June 29.

“New Yorkers have waited long enough – let’s make ride-sharing available now,” Senator George Amedore, co-sponsor of the bill, said. Moving up the implantation date to allow our Upstate communities to take advantage of this long-overdue service sooner will help increase public safety as we approach the busy summer travel months and holiday weekends.”

47 states across the country currently have access to ride-hailing services. Uber and Lyft are available in the New York City area, but not elsewhere in the state. In Jan., Gov. Cuomo announced a new legislative proposal to expand ridesharing services, across the entire New York State.

A local pharmacist tells us how to get a medical marijuana prescription and the benefits of medical marijuana.

More From WRRV-WRRB