New York City's Taxi and Limousine Commission is proposing rule changes to protect passengers from improper behavior and conversations from cabbies.
The Daily News reports cab drivers would be barred from any conversation related to sexual acts or contact. They also would have to refrain from making remarks referring to sexual conduct, gender and physical appearance under the proposed rule changes.
Officials say the updated language would provide clear definitions to help the agency enforce its rules and protect passengers.
The move comes after a 23 percent increase in complaints from riders to the TLC. The agency said that there was also a 1 percent increase in complaints about sexual harassment.
Spokesman Allan Fromberg says the definitions would help drivers steer clear of improper behavior.
The commission is proposing a $1,000 fine, three points on a driver's license and a 30-day suspension for sexual harassment. Sexual contact would carry a $2,000 fine and mandatory revocation.
Debjani Roy, the deputy director of anti-harassment group Hollaback, said that education should also be part of any changes.
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"Language around this is important, but it's not always about penalties and punishment," she said. "It's about education and outreach and getting everyone on the same page about what constitutes sexual violence."
Taxi officials will discuss the rules at a hearing April 21.
