WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Post reports that more and more transit agencies, including those in Washington D.C., Chicago and New York, are eyeing app-based ride services like Uber and Lyft to help alleviate the strain on its paratransit services.

Proponents of such partnerships say they could potentially reduce costs for the multimillion-dollar, heavily subsidized paratransit services. They also would help communities respond to customer demands for same-day, on-demand service, which is currently lacking.

Opponents, though, say the app-based ride companies do not have enough wheelchair-accessible vehicles and have not done enough to meet the needs of people with disabilities, such as those who are blind or use wheelchairs. They also question the level of training in dealing with people with special needs that drivers receive, and echo widely publicized concerns about safety, insurance coverage and the vetting process for drivers. For the full story, click here.