The role of humans in autonomous trucks has been a topic of debate for some time. Recently, California Governor Gavin Newsom made headlines by rejecting a bill that would require a human driver behind the wheel of autonomous trucks for at least five years, according to Transport Topics; as the trucking industry continues to grow and evolve with cutting-edge innovations, these advancements promise positive changes but also raise concerns about their impact on certain groups. How do we balance progress with the human element in this rapidly changing landscape?
The Assembly Bill 316
The Senate passed AB 316 earlier in the month, and the Assembly also approved it back in May. Newsom had ideas about the bill. He wrote that it was an unnecessary move. He argues that the regulations in place are enough to govern these trucks in California. Newsom said that the DMV has the authority to manage the autonomous trucks. Therefore, he argues that with all that in place, the bill is irrelevant.
DMV's Role in Regulating Autonomous Trucks
The Office of Motor Vehicles plays a crucial role in overseeing all operations on the roads, particularly in relation to the safe operation of autonomous trucks. They work in collaboration with other bodies to establish and enforce the necessary regulations for road safety. Over the years, they have closely monitored the testing of these trucks and have the authority to revoke or suspend permits to protect the public. This comprehensive approach is aimed at ensuring the safety of all road users.
Teamsters fully backed the bill. They marched to the state Capitol with other supporters, demanding the governor sign the bill. A two-thirds vote in each house can overrule the governor's veto. The Assembly speaker remains positive. She noted that she is not happy with the veto. However, she pointed out that the governor is willing to work with sponsors, meaning he is open to talking with stakeholders and sponsors and coming up with the next steps.
Diverse Reactions to the Veto
Safety and having no drivers in trucks are two significant issues. Through AB 316, they had hoped to address these two issues. The speaker will engage the administration on the governor's offer. From there, she will devise the course of action going forward. The decision disappointed people who felt they would be affected if autonomous trucks were free to operate.
There are always those who benefit from such decisions. The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association is more than happy with the veto. Jeff Farrah stated that they now hope the safety experts will continue studying how autonomous trucks operate on the roads. He pointed out that they are happy to work with California State and other agencies that support these kinds of projects. He believes it is the future, and they would take all the support they can get.
Those in support of the veto feel like a lack of support would mean being left behind. They believe the governor was courageous in vetoing the bill, showing that he was willing to give innovation a chance. On the other hand, drivers feel like they will be out of jobs, so they take their frustration to the streets. With technology comes a few negative effects, but in a place with more positives, it is worth taking a chance on it. The governor has given the technology an opportunity.
