Mayor Giuliani Announces $5M Taxi Safety Program

April 14, 2000 – NYC Mayor’s Office

In the spring of 2000, Mayor Rudy Giuliani unveiled a $5 million safety program aimed at protecting New York City’s hardworking taxi and livery drivers. This initiative was a direct response to the surge of violence that had claimed the lives of several drivers in a short period of time. The plan included the installation of bulletproof partitions and interior cameras in vehicles, offering drivers new tools to defend themselves and deter crime.

The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) was recognized as a key partner in this effort. Together with the Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) and the NYPD, the Federation helped shape strategies that placed driver safety at the forefront of city policy. This program marked one of the earliest major collaborations between NYSFTD and City Hall, cementing the Federation’s role as the leading voice for driver protection.