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Liberty Caller Editorial Team

California Says NO to AVs

California’s proposed regulations for testing self-driving heavy-duty trucks have sparked intense debate between safety advocates and tech companies as Governor Newsom’s earlier veto signals a shift in the state’s approach to autonomous vehicles.

At a Glance

  • California regulators have proposed allowing testing of self-driving trucks weighing over 10,001 pounds on public roads
  • The state is currently the only one with explicit regulations banning autonomous heavy-duty vehicles
  • Assembly Bill 316, which would require human drivers in autonomous trucks, passed the Assembly with a 69-4 vote
  • Governor Newsom previously vetoed similar legislation in 2023, suggesting a pro-technology stance
  • Safety advocates and labor unions strongly oppose the proposal, citing safety risks and potential job losses

California’s Regulatory Crossroads

California has found itself at the center of a contentious debate over the future of autonomous vehicles on its highways. While the state has allowed testing of light-duty autonomous vehicles since 2014, it has maintained restrictions on larger commercial trucks – until now. The Department of Motor Vehicles has proposed new regulations that would permit testing of self-driving heavy-duty trucks weighing over 10,001 pounds on public roads, bringing California in line with states like Texas, Arizona, and Arkansas that already allow such testing.

The proposal comes at a time when California’s legislature has been pushing in the opposite direction. Assembly Bill 316, which would make it difficult for autonomous trucks to operate without a safety driver, passed the Assembly with an overwhelming 69-4 vote. The bill specifically prohibits larger autonomous vehicles from operating on public roads for non-testing purposes without both legislative and DMV approval, underscoring widespread concerns about safety and workforce impacts.

Safety Concerns and Recent Incidents

Safety advocates point to recent incidents involving autonomous vehicles as evidence that the technology isn’t ready for widespread deployment. The DMV previously suspended Cruise’s permit after a pedestrian was struck by one of its self-driving cars in San Francisco, highlighting the potential risks. Research indicates that vehicles with higher front ends, like heavy-duty trucks, pose a significantly higher risk of fatalities in pedestrian collisions, raising additional concerns about putting large autonomous trucks on public roads.

“As California considers expanding autonomous technology to include trucks, buses and other large vehicles, AVs have greater potential to injure and kill Californians and displace large portions of the workforce,” said Sen. Lena Gonzalez.

The proposed regulations aim to enhance data-reporting requirements and give the DMV more enforcement authority, potentially addressing some of these concerns. The public comment period remains open until June, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions on the matter. However, critics argue that these measures don’t go far enough to ensure public safety with vehicles of this size operating without human supervision.

Labor Impact and Political Dynamics

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has emerged as a major opponent of autonomous trucking, with the union throwing its full support behind AB 316. The bill requires a DMV report by 2029 on autonomous vehicle technology’s impact on safety and jobs – a key concern for workers in the transportation industry. Labor groups fear that allowing self-driving trucks would eventually eliminate thousands of middle-class driving positions across the state.

“I support AB 316 because, in addition to setting higher safety standards for Californians, it will help protect thousands of good union jobs,” said Mike Di Bene.

Governor Newsom’s previous veto of similar legislation has created tension with labor allies. Industry insiders suggest the political dynamics involve balancing labor interests against technology sector growth, with potential implications for Newsom’s political future. The autonomous vehicle industry argues that their technology can actually improve safety while creating new types of jobs, though these claims are disputed by labor representatives.

California’s Economic Stakes

The outcome of this regulatory battle has significant economic implications for California. Several California-based autonomous trucking companies currently conduct their operations in other states due to the existing restrictions. “The bill is a direct reaction to the administration beginning to promulgate rules for AV trucks,” noted Daniel Goff, highlighting the tension between legislative and executive approaches to regulation.

Advocates for autonomous technology argue that embracing driverless trucks could position California at the forefront of transportation innovation, bringing economic benefits and technological leadership. However, critics counter that any economic gains would come at the expense of working-class jobs and public safety. Possible compromises being discussed include setting performance benchmarks for autonomous trucks and implementing a multi-year prohibition on DMV authorization without legislative approval.

As the debate continues, California’s approach to regulating autonomous heavy-duty vehicles will likely influence how other states address this emerging technology, making the stakes even higher for all parties involved. The decision ultimately rests with state regulators and Governor Newsom, who must weigh technological progress against safety concerns and workforce impacts.

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