Mayor Zimmer Urges Lawmakers to Legalize App-Based Taxi Services

Hitching a ride in Hoboken should be as simple as tapping a button but as of now, mobile apps like Uber that connect users with drivers through the use of GPS technology are currently illegal in Hoboken. Now, Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer has released a statement expressing her support for Rideshare services and imploring state legislatures to take action.

“Uber and similar companies offer a valuable transportation option that we want to make available to Hoboken residents and visitors,” Mayor Dawn Zimmer expressed on the city’s web page. “Since April, I have been advocating to our State elected officials to ensure that this transportation option can operate safely and lawfully in our community. I am glad to hear that there is legislation pending before the State Senate and Assembly to address the issue.

“I urge the legislature to pass S2274/A3586 expeditiously so that we can safely and legally use these services which are so important to our residents,” Zimmer added. “As mayor, I have an obligation to ensure the public safety of our community, and this new legislation addresses my concerns by ensuring that all drivers have safe driving and background records and proper levels of insurance in case of accidents.”

News 12 New Jersey reported that while app users praise the hassle free service, taxi drivers see the service as unfair competition. “Because we’re here, we have to pay the rent,” taxi Driver Eddie Mark told News 12 New Jersey. “We have to pay the tax. We have to pay the gas, mechanic. We pay a lot of money to work here.”

Click here to see Mayor Zimmer’s letter to State legislators
The legislation introduced to address this issue can be found here.