Richard Reibstein, a partner in Troutman Pepper Locke’s Labor + Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the July 23, 2025 Law360 article, “NYC Gig Driver Pay Increases While Contractor Status Stays.”

Driver lawsuits alleging independent contractor misclassification have lessened since New York City addressed the issue, said Richard Reibstein, who focuses on independent contractor compliance in his practice at Troutman Pepper Locke LLP.

“Prior to 2019, the issue of whether ride-share drivers were independent contractors or employees was a regular feature of independent contractor misclassification law,” he said. “But since that time, the number of independent contractor misclassification lawsuits against transportation management companies in New York City have decreased considerably.”

Companies have sued jurisdictions, including New York City, to challenge such standards. But Reibstein said companies could be open to standards if it means they will face less litigation.

“They will favor legislation that minimizes the likelihood of lawsuits but at the same time does not tilt the balance in a manner that favors ride-share drivers,” he said. “This particular regulation may well be regarded by transportation management companies as going too far and therefore may lead to legal challenges.”

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