It looks like we can now add Newark to the list of cities that have taken a firm stance against Uber. Newark’s chief prosecutor, Evans C. Anyanwu, warned Uber Technologies Inc. in a letter to their legal counsel that drivers are violating the city’s taxicab ordinance, and that those operating at Newark Liberty International Airport and Penn Station in Newark can expect to have their cars towed and face fines.
In the letter, Anyanwu said – in part – that “I have instructed our police department effective Feb. 22 to immediately tow Uber drivers operating in and around Newark Airport and Newark Penn Station[…] After Feb. 22, the continued violation of the city’s laws will result in civil and criminal penalties for Uber and its drivers.”
This is not nearly the first time the company has faced pressure of this sort. In response, Uber released a statement saying that it would encourage its drivers to continue taking passengers to and from either location, and promised to reimburse them for any towing fees or other penalties they may incur.
“Instead of trying to restrict competition and consumer choice, Newark should be welcoming the thousands of drivers who use Uber to earn income and support their families,” it said.
It has not been revealed yet if any other companies who operate app-based car-for-hire services have been targeted. What do you think about the City’s action against Uber? Is it fair?
