State employees could soon be trading in their vehicles for a ride in a taxi or an Uber. One lawmaker noted a surplus of unused cars is a multi-million dollar drain on Arizona’s budget.

In HB2440, Republican Representative Jeff Weninger proposed using alternate transportation for state employees who are assigned cars, but rarely need them.  

Democrat Representative Mitzi Epstein pointed out some employees may not feel safe taking a ride-sharing service with an unknown driver.

Weninger dismissed her concern.

"I don't think state government is going to put anybody in danger and make them ride in an Uber or a cab if they're not comfortable with it,” he assured Epstein.

If the plan is approved to remove 500 state vehicles from its fleet, Weninger estimated the state would save $10.5 million in purchases and repairs. 

 The measure waits for the Senate’s full approval.