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CITY OF ALBANY

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR


24 EAGLE STREET
ALBANY, NEW YORK 12207
TELEPHONE (518) 434-5100
WWW.ALBANYNY.ORG
KATHY SHEEHAN
MAYOR

March 28, 2017

The Honorable Kevin Cahill


New York State Assembly
Legislative Office Building 716
Albany, NY 12248

Assemblymember Cahill:

We are writing to reiterate our support for the operation of peer-to-peer ridesharing networks
outside of New York City. As stated in our most recent correspondence, services such as Lyft
and Uber will allow our constituents to better utilize our existing transportation infrastructure
and provide a convenient and cost-effective way to connect people with jobs, recreational
opportunities, and medical appointments.

As the duly elected leaders of our cities we are asking for language to be included in the 2017-
2018 New York State Budget which authorizes Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) to
operate within and throughout our communities under a properly vetted and enacted statewide
regulatory framework. Our residents are demanding these services, and given the unique
transportation challenges facing Upstate communities this new industry should be regulated in a
way that maximizes benefits and reflects how people truly live, work, and recreate.

It does not make sense to unnecessarily complicate this matter when there are numerous states
with comprehensive regulations that New York can look to and expand upon. The security
background requirements proposed by the Executive and Senate mirror those in 39 other states
and their proposals include a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination and several first-in-the-
nation proposals to protect drivers and passengers with disabilities.

Furthermore, in 2015 a national insurance agreement was reached between the major ridesharing
companies and insurers which would provide Upstate drivers with twenty-times the coverage
that is required of taxi and livery vehicles in this state. It does not make sense to impose an
antiquated regulatory structure on a new industry when there are clear examples of how to create
reasonable and uniform standards that ensure public safety, protect consumers and drivers, and
promote access for older adults and individuals with disabilities who could benefit greatly from
on-demand transportation.
We reiterate our request to bring ridesharing to Upstate New York and request that it be done in
the most expedient manner possible, which is currently through the budget process.

Sincerely,

Kathy M. Sheehan
Mayor, City of Albany

Byron W. Brown
Mayor, City of Buffalo

Lovely A. Warren
Mayor, City of Rochester

Robert Palmieri
Svante Myrick Mayor, City of Utica

Svante Myrick
Mayor, City of Ithaca

Jacqueline M. Izzo
Mayor, City of Rome

Gary R. McCarthy
Mayor, City of Schenectady

Cc: Speaker Carl Heastie

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