Story perspectives

NYC Sues Empower for Illegal Rides, Seeks Permanent Ban

3/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

New York City, through the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), is suing Empower for operating without licenses.
The city seeks to permanently ban Empower and founder Joshua Sear.
The suit alleges Empower dispatched over 100,000 illegal rides since 2022 and priced fares 20% lower than Uber and Lyft.
Officials warn the service risks riders due to insurance gaps and unlicensed drivers.
Empower drivers may face fines for operating without authorization.

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Story summary

New York City, through the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), is suing Empower for operating without licenses.
The city seeks to permanently ban Empower and founder Joshua Sear.
The suit alleges Empower dispatched over 100,000 illegal rides since 2022 and priced fares 20% lower than Uber and Lyft.
Officials warn the service risks riders due to insurance gaps and unlicensed drivers.
Empower drivers may face fines for operating without authorization.