Lyft's launch in the Big Apple has been unceremoniously delayed. (Pkg203, Wikimedia Commons)

In a joint statement, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and State Superintendent of Financial Services Benjamin Lawsky said that they sought the restraining order after repeated failed attempts to get Lyft to comply with state law. 

“We are committed to fostering a competitive marketplace where each participant is treated fairly,” their statement said. 

Although Lyft has argued that it is not a taxi service and therefore should not be bound to the regulations of New York’s Taxi and Limousine Commission, it has agreed in New York State Supreme Court to seek TLC approval before launching in New York. 

Other ride-sharing companies, notably Uber, have gone through the TLC to successfully operate in NYC. Those that did not have been unceremoniously kicked out of the city. 

When reached for comment, Lyft has denied that its postponement of the launch is due to either an injunction or a restraining order. 

Lyft faces a similar legal battle in California, where taxi drivers and state legislators are calling for more regulation.  

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