NYC Mayor's Race: Candidates weigh in on rideshare protections for passengers, drivers and companies

"As the race for Gracie Mansion continues, policies around New York City's burgeoning rideshare driver community have emerged as a key issue among the public and elected officials. With thousands of drivers navigating the city's streets, often working long hours for fluctuating wages, their concerns have already gained traction in City Hall with the introduction of a driver-protection bill."

"NYC Council Member Shekar Krishnan, who represents parts of Queens including Jackson Heights and Elmhurst, sponsored Intro. 276, which is a bill that would prohibit rideshare companies from deactivating essentially firing for-hire drivers without just cause. Krishnan said in an interview with amNewYork that his district is home to the largest taxi-driver population in NYC. Drivers have reported their concerns about the industry to him, including the issue of the deactivations."

"The council member explained that the 14-day notice period in his bill would prevent rideshare platforms from promptly removing drivers who have been reported as engaging in unsafe conduct, which could be anything ranging from reckless driving to harassment, without due process. Intro. 276 gives New York City's largest private sector workforce, app-based drivers, their power back, and we will pass this legislation, he said. We are a council that stands up for workers, not billion-dollar app companies."

Intro. 276 would prohibit rideshare companies from deactivating for-hire drivers without just cause and requires a 14-day notice period before removal. Shekar Krishnan sponsored the bill representing Queens neighborhoods with large taxi populations after many drivers reported concerns about sudden deactivations and unsafe conduct allegations. The notice period aims to prevent platforms from promptly removing drivers accused of misconduct without due process. Ridesharing provides transportation and economic opportunity but leaves many drivers as independent contractors with fluctuating wages, prompting local politicians and mayoral candidates to propose increased regulations and worker safeguards.

Read at www.amny.com