New York Governor Opens Pathway for Robotaxis … Except in NYC

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul is reportedly working on legislation to open the pathway for robotaxis across New York — well, everywhere except New York City.

“New York Governor Kathy Hochul plans to introduce legislation that would effectively legalize robotaxis in the state — except for its most populous metropolis: New York City,” TechCrunch reports. “Details on the proposed legislation and when it might be released are thin. However, there are some hints contained within a document that outlines an array of proposals and promises Hochul made in her State of the State address.”

That said, the words and phrases used in that document are quite vague. Though, for all intents and purposes, they must be music to Waymo’s ears. Actually, Waymo has already responded. “With the Governor’s leadership, New York has the opportunity to pair its investments in slower speeds, better traffic enforcement, and first-in-the-nation congestion management strategies with Waymo’s demonstrably safe technology, creating a future where living in New York is safer, easier, and more accessible. We’re ready to work with leaders around the state to make this future a reality, and bring new infrastructure, career opportunities, and investment to the Empire State,” commented Justin Kintz, Waymo’s head of global public policy.

While other places, like Arizona and California, have had avenues for robotaxi testing and development for years, New York has been stuck far behind. One particular policy, requiring that drivers always have at least one hand on the wheel, has been a particular blockade. But the state looks ready to move past that.

That said, with regard to NYC, the large taxi network/taxi lobby is keeping Waymo and other robotaxi companies at bay for now. Good luck getting a commercial robotaxi license from the Taxi and Limousine Commission.