The New York Taxi Workers Alliance (NYTWA) has strongly criticized Uber for filing a lawsuit to block Local Law 52, a New York City law designed to protect drivers from unfair deactivations.
“No-good, terrible, reckless, heartless, cruel Uber sued to stop Local Law 52, the law we won to stop unfair deactivations by Uber and Lyft,” read a social media post of the alliance on Thursday.
The post said, multi-billionaire Uber – whose unfair deactivations without fair reason, notice, or independent appeals have left drivers devastated, in crisis, and without the dignified chance to defend oneself – cries victim in the nonsense suit.
According to the union, the law requires ride-hailing companies to provide drivers with fair notice, a valid reason for deactivation, and access to an independent appeals process before removing them from the platform.
NYTWA argues that thousands of drivers have lost their livelihoods due to sudden deactivations without adequate explanation or an opportunity to defend themselves.
The organization described Uber’s lawsuit as an attempt to weaken the protection that drivers fought hard to secure through the City Council.
The union also rejected Uber’s request for a preliminary injunction that would temporarily halt the law while the case proceeds through the courts.
NYTWA maintains that independent reviews by courts, arbitrators, and investigators are necessary to ensure fairness and accountability.
Calling unfair deactivations “devastating and widespread,” the organization urged New York City officials to vigorously defend the law.
“Drivers deserve job security, due process, and the right to appeal decisions that affect their ability to earn a living,” the union said.