S6670A

The New York State Senate passed the COVID-19 Livery Vehicle Recovery Act (S6670A) on a 56-1 vote, with only Sen. Ortt voting in opposition. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Sepúlveda, aims to assist the for-hire vehicle industry in New York City, which has been severely impacted by a Taxi and Limousine Commission moratorium on applications that began in 2018 and was extended during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Sepúlveda, the industry has contracted dramatically, with the number of drivers plummeting from approximately 14,000 in 2018 to about 6,000 today. The legislation would allow affected drivers to resubmit their existing applications rather than file new ones, enabling them to regain their ability to work and earn income. Sepúlveda argued the measure represents fair treatment for an industry segment in dire need of assistance, allowing drivers to continue contributing to their families and communities. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.