The City Council is considering new regulations for the pedicab industry to prevent alleged price-gouging of tourists in Midtown. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Councilman Dan Garodnick, aims to standardize pedicab fares by requiring that they charge only by-the-minute and eliminate confusing and deceptive fee structures. Pedicab drivers would also be required to install timers and clearly display their rates. The bill is supported by some industry leaders, like Laramie Flick of the Pedicab Owners’ Association, but opposed by others, like veteran driver Ibrahim Donmez, who believes it won’t solve the problem. Councilman Oliver Koppell suggests even stricter regulations, including uniform fares like taxis, to prevent overcharging. The bill is under review by the City Council.
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