New York Halts Robotaxi Expansion Plan

Governor withdraws proposal to legalize autonomous vehicle services outside of New York City

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul has withdrawn a proposal that would have amended state laws to allow robotaxi services to operate outside of New York City. The move is a setback for Waymo, which has been trying for years to test and deploy its autonomous vehicle technology in the state. While Waymo can continue testing in NYC under a limited permit, the company's hopes for a broader robotaxi expansion in New York have been put on hold for now.

Why it matters

The withdrawal of the robotaxi expansion plan is a blow to Waymo's ambitions to bring its autonomous vehicle technology to more New Yorkers. It also highlights the challenges autonomous vehicle companies face in navigating complex regulatory environments and gaining public support for their services, even in major tech-forward cities.

The details

Hochul's proposal would have changed a state law requiring drivers to keep one hand on the wheel at all times, which effectively prevents robotaxi services from operating since there is no human driver. However, the proposal contained several limitations, including prohibiting robotaxi services in cities over 1 million people and requiring a $1 million fee and $5 million in financial security. With the proposal withdrawn, New York's existing autonomous vehicle pilot program, which is more restrictive, will remain in place.

  • Waymo is currently testing its robotaxis in New York City under a permit that expires on March 31, 2026.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York who withdrew the proposal to legalize robotaxi services outside of New York City.

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What they’re saying

“We hear from thousands of New Yorkers who have experienced Waymo in other cities and want access to it at home. They want the safety, privacy, and comfort that riders in other major cities already enjoy. While we are disappointed by the Governor's decision, we're committed to bringing our service to New York and will work with the State Legislature to advance this issue.”

— Waymo (TechCrunch)

“The path forward requires a collaborative approach that prioritizes transparency and public safety. We will continue to engage constructively with the Governor, the Legislature, and officials around the state to deliver this proven mobility option that New Yorkers are waiting for.”

— Waymo (TechCrunch)

What’s next

Waymo plans to continue working with the New York state legislature to try to advance its robotaxi expansion plans in the future.

The takeaway

The withdrawal of the robotaxi expansion proposal highlights the challenges autonomous vehicle companies face in gaining regulatory approval and public support, even in major tech-forward cities like New York. Waymo's setback underscores the need for a collaborative approach that prioritizes transparency and public safety as the company seeks to bring its autonomous vehicle technology to more New Yorkers.