The Council of the District of Columbia's Committee on Public Works & Operations has adopted the Unauthorized Private For-Hire Vehicle Investigation Reauthorization Resolution of 2025, which allows the committee to use subpoenas in an ongoing investigation into the unauthorized operations of Yazam, Inc., doing business as Empower. The resolution was approved unanimously by the committee members during a meeting held on January 28, 2025. The investigation aims to address concerns regarding Empower's non-compliance with local laws and regulations governing private for-hire vehicle services, which pose potential safety risks to residents and visitors in the District.

The committee's findings indicate that Empower has not registered as a private vehicle-for-hire company and has failed to comply with various legal requirements, including consumer protection and safety regulations. The investigation will assess the extent of these violations, the financial implications for the District due to unpaid taxes and penalties, and the overall impact of Empower's operations on the for-hire vehicle industry. Additionally, the committee will explore necessary updates to local laws to enhance rider protection and evaluate enforcement mechanisms to prevent unauthorized operations in the future. The resolution is effective immediately.