New York state lawmakers returning to Albany in January will debate whether to allow Uber to expand into upstate cities including Buffalo, Albany, Rochester and Syracuse.
The app-based ride-hailing service is now limited to the New York City area but says there's no reason why it can't be regulated throughout the state. Rival Lyft is also looking to expand.
Uber has put together a broad coalition of supporters including local mayors, anti-drunken driving advocates and law enforcement officials who say the company could create thousands of new jobs while offering a new transportation option.
Taxi companies are fighting the expansion. They say Uber threatens the jobs of taxi dispatchers and other employees who aren't necessary for the company's Internet-based business model.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press.
