As the TLC prepares to roll out its five borough taxi plan, Council Member James Vacca will Chair an Oversight hearing on Thursday, March 1 to examine the length of time it takes for-hire vehicles to be inspected at its Woodside Inspection Center, both for new vehicles and renewals. Industry stakeholders have complained that the extensive delays force drivers to forgo weeks' worth of pay or encourages them to drive illegally while they await inspection in order to avoid lost wages.
The Committee will also hear testimony on four bills, including Introduction 695-A (Lappin), which would explicitly prohibit yellow cabs from accepting street hails with their off-duty light engaged. Introduction 234-A (Vacca) amends the TLC’s current advisory board structure to ensure that all segments of TLC-regulated industries have access to the TLC for rule-making purposes. Introduction 676-A (Lappin) exempts veterans, seniors, and those who obtained a yellow medallion through the death of a spouse from the TLC’s owner-must-drive requirements. Introduction 449 (Koppell) would require the TLC to post signage in the back of livery vehicles informing passengers of their right to request a wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Who: Council Member James Vacca, Chair, Transportation Committee
Commissioner David Yassky, Taxi and Limousine Commission
Industry Stakeholders
Where: 250 Broadway, 14th Floor Committee Room
When: Thursday, March 1, 1:30 p.m.