Bloomberg signs law restricting pedicab fares in NYC

NEW YORK – New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has signed off on a law meant to stop pedicab passengers from being taken for a ride.

A spokeswoman says the mayor signed the measure Thursday. He had said Wednesday he needed to look into it further.

Spokeswoman Evelyn Erskine says Bloomberg decided it would create a reasonable fare system and increase protections for passengers in the tricycle taxis.

The measure requires pedicab drivers to charge by the minute, with the timer clearly visible. Most drivers now charge by city block and per passenger. Some add surcharges.

One Texas family paid more than $400 for a 14-block ride this summer.

The city Pedicab Owners' Association supports the new fare restriction.