Upstate New York Passes New Ride-Hailing Bill

The New York Senate passed a bill to allow ride hailing to operate in Upstate New York, with the intention of improving local economies, according to a report by the New York Senate. The bill (S4159) provides the framework for ride-hailing companies to expand operations outside of New York City.

The 5.5% tax on rides for rides outside of New York City will be lowered to 2% — thanks to measure cuts from the New York Senate. Additionally, the new bill does not subject ride hailing to the state’s 4% sales tax, says the report.

The measure requires that Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft have their drivers undergo criminal and driving history background checks, according to the report.

The measure will also require passenger notifications for driver information and trip changes, as well as the adoption of non-discrimination and zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policies, says the report.