The New York City Council passed a bill to regulate the pedicab industry, imposing oversight similar to that of taxis and tour buses. The bill caps the number of pedicabs at 325, bans electric motors, requires liability insurance, and mandates licensing and inspections. The bill allows the police to restrict pedicabs from Midtown during peak times, affecting drivers’ income. Pedicab operators argue the regulations are excessive, particularly the ban on motors and the cap, which could remove about 175 pedicabs. While the industry sought some regulations, such as for insurance, the broader measures are seen as threatening their livelihood. Many drivers rely on tips and act as informal tour guides, offering a unique service that some feel is being unfairly targeted.
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