NYC Council Overrides Veto to Protect Rideshare Drivers

New York City’s Council has voted to override a last-minute veto by former Mayor Eric Adams, approving Intro 276, a bill designed to protect rideshare drivers from unfair deactivation by companies like Uber and Lyft.

The law requires companies to provide 14 days’ notice before deactivation in most cases, places the burden of proof on the companies, and allows for backpay if drivers are wrongfully removed. It also enables the city to provide pro-bono legal assistance and gives drivers an independent appeals process.

Drivers like Md Azizul Haque, who says he was unfairly deactivated by Uber, welcomed the measure. “I couldn’t pay my rent for six months,” Haque said, highlighting the financial impact of sudden deactivations.

Councilmember Shekar Krishnan, the bill’s main sponsor, stated, “We will protect all workers from corporate greed and send a message to drivers across the country.”

However, some groups, including the Independent Drivers Guild, have raised concerns that last-minute changes weaken certain protections, particularly around the use of neutral arbitrators and city resources for appeals.

Lyft criticized the bill, warning it could harm riders, while Uber declined to comment. The law will take effect in 180 days.