New York Drops Plan for Robotaxis Amid Lack of Support

New York Governor Kathy Hochul dropped her proposal to allow robotaxi companies to launch commercially in cities other than New York City, citing a lack of support among state legislators. This move is a setback for Waymo and other robotaxi companies that saw New York, particularly the city, as a prime opportunity for expansion. The plan would have enabled limited deployment of autonomous vehicles outside of New York City, with the mayor and City Council retaining discretion over whether to permit their use in the city itself.