It’s been just over two weeks since ride hailing services have been permitted outside New York City, and Governor Andrew Cuomo says he’s pleased, so far.
Cuomo pushed to allow companies including Uber and Lyft to operate in upstate and on Long Island, and service began June 29.
There have been reports that potential passengers in more rural and remote areas have been unable to quickly summon drivers, if at all. Some local transit authorities have tacked on additional fees that riders must pay as part of their bill to Uber, Lyft and other companies.
But, the governor says, people should be patient. The Democrat says after all, it’s only been two weeks.
“Let’s give it some time,” Cuomo said. “I’m sure it’s not going to solve every problem but, it’s also no doubt that it’s been a welcome relief all across the board. It was the right move and I'm proud of it."
Areas outside New York City are one of the last regions of the country to have Uber and Lyft. Cuomo, speaking in Buffalo, says the exclusion of ride hailing from upstate and Long Island, was an “injustice."
"I think it was a slight to Western New York and the upstate communities," Cuomo said. "I think it was a pattern of this state and this state government often overlooking the interests of upstate New York."
Alaska was the only other state not to allow ride-hailing services, until that state’s governor signed a bill into law in mid-June allowing the service.
