A D.C. judge paused Empower’s contempt order, allowing it to keep operating while an appeals court decides if it still must follow rideshare rules.

Empower can continue operating in Washington, D.C., after a judge stayed her contempt order pending a decision from the D.C. Court of Appeals, likely allowing the company to remain active until at least January 9. The stay comes amid a legal battle over whether Empower, now using a no-contract model, falls under city rideshare regulations. While the company argues it no longer has formal agreements with drivers, a judge ruled an implied contract exists due to ongoing requirements like background checks and payment processing. The D.C. government disputes the changes, calling them superficial. The appeals court’s decision will determine Empower’s future in the city and impact thousands of drivers and riders.