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NYC Sues Ride-Hailing App Empower for Unlicensed Operations
City claims Empower's illegal service puts public safety at risk
Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:51am
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New York City is taking legal action against the ride-hailing app Empower for operating without proper licenses and dispatching over 100,000 unauthorized rides in the city. The city alleges Empower's unlicensed service puts drivers, passengers, and the public at risk.
Why it matters
Ride-hailing services must comply with local licensing and safety regulations. Empower's alleged unlawful operations undermine efforts to ensure passenger safety and a level playing field for licensed transportation providers in New York City.
The details
According to the lawsuit, Empower has been marketing itself as a cheaper alternative to Uber and Lyft, advertising rides that are 20% less expensive. However, the city claims Empower has been operating without the required licenses and permits, potentially compromising safety standards.
- The lawsuit was filed by New York City on March 31, 2026.
The players
Empower
A ride-hailing service that markets itself as a cheaper alternative to Uber and Lyft.
New York City
The municipal government that is suing Empower for operating without proper licenses.
What’s next
The city is seeking a court order to stop Empower from operating in New York City until it obtains the necessary licenses and permits.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of ride-hailing services complying with local regulations to ensure passenger safety and a fair transportation market. Unlicensed operations undermine efforts to maintain standards and oversight in the industry.
