Waymo and other robotaxi developers have long struggled to gain a foothold in New York beyond pilots and tests, with no unsupervised commercial rides to date.

A proposed plan would have barred AV robotaxi services in cities over a million residents, required state approvals, and imposed a $1 million fee plus at least $5 million in financial security.

Waymo expressed disappointment in the withdrawal but pledged to keep working with the State Legislature to advance autonomous-vehicle access in New York, stressing public safety and collaboration.

Waymo has lobbied for access to New York since 2019 and remains committed to bringing its service to the state pending legislative changes and safety considerations.

A Waymo spokesperson said the company will continue engaging with the governor, Legislature, and state officials to pursue a path toward deployment and safety transparency.

Ongoing safety scrutiny of autonomous vehicles is in focus, with Waymo’s safety record not marred by major injuries, highlighting the broader debate over commercialization and regulatory protections.

Expanding broad AV operations statewide would require amending New York Vehicle and Traffic Law to permit driverless fleets, a step lawmakers would need to approve.

The article centers on the regulatory decision and its potential impact on Waymo’s expansion plans and the broader robotaxi industry.

Labor unions, rideshare drivers, and transit workers opposed the plan over safety concerns and potential job losses, while the Taxi Workers Alliance supported Hochul’s move as protecting livelihoods.

Industry opponents warn that driverless services could threaten livelihoods and plan to mobilize opposition to expansion.

The decision comes amid opposition from safety groups and unions representing taxi, for-hire, and yellow cab drivers who fear the impact on their industry.

Waymo is currently testing in New York City under a permit valid through March, with eight self-driving cars operating in Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn under supervision.