State lawmakers insisted this week in Albany a bill to expand ride hailing remains on track, potentially as part of a deal in the state budget, due March 31.
"We're focused on helping the economy, particularly upstate. That is a help with the upstate economy," said State Senator James Seward (R - Milford). "Our local governments, mayors, county executives, as well as the general public, they're clamoring for this.
But at the same time, lawmakers acknowledge the predominant ride hailing company Uber has faced a range of issues, including allegations of sexual harassment and the use of special coding to evade regulators.
"Yes, there are problems associated with the horrible news coming out of the Uber company over the last several months," said Assemblyman Kevin Cahill (D - Kingston). "It does demonstrate a need for that company to sort of face up to their responsibilities [as a] corporate citizen, and it's something they've clearly failed to do."
But lawmakers also insist those issues facing just one ride hailing company won't scuttle the overall bill to allow ride hailing apps to operate outside of New York City.
"That is not what this legislation is. It is not Uber legislation," said Cahill.
Some lawmakers still remain concerned over the overall business model for ride hailing and its treatment of drivers and safety for passengers, including women and the disabled.
"It's a very, very large company that sees itself as a technology company, and therefore provides a platform, but does not view their drivers as employees," said Assemblywoman Deborah Glick (D - Manhattan).
Still, lawmakers Spectrum News spoke to dismissed the concerns stemming from Uber, saying they want to see a bill to vote on, if not an agreement in the budget.
"There's widespread support in both houses for ride sharing," said Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb (R). "Certainly, we're still looking for a transparent answer why the Assembly majority is not moving the bill or doing it as part of the budget negotiations."
One of the remaining questions is how the Legislature and Governor Andrew Cuomo will ultimately regulate ride hailing in a deal. All three sides have competing proposals.