U.S. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) on Aug. 8 unveiled the new bipartisan Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus to educate fellow members and staff on the benefits of the technology that powers self-driving vehicles.
“For generations, the United States has paved the way in innovative vehicle technology. Autonomous vehicles are the next step forward,” Rep. Latta said. “In order for this technology to succeed, we must educate, advocate and create a framework to implement their use.”
Rep. Latta joined U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), who both serve on the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce, in launching the caucus.
Rep. Latta pointed out that autonomous vehicle (AV) technology will improve the lives of millions of Americans, while also providing people with disabilities and senior citizens with increased mobility and independence.
“That is why I am excited to announce the launch of the Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus with Representative Dingell to educate members of Congress on AV technology and to work towards a national framework so that AVs can continue to safely expand throughout the country,” he said.
Such a framework, said Rep. Dingell, will help the United States stay at the forefront of innovation, manufacturing and safety. “The future of American mobility and leadership depends on us getting this right and working together,” she said in a joint statement.
“We must ensure our nation is engaging all stakeholders, making bold investments, and working across the aisle to get the necessary policies right to support the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles,” Rep. Dingell added. “I’m proud to join Representative Latta to launch the bipartisan Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus, which will aid us in this effort, as well as provide a space for like-minded members to learn, discuss and collaborate on all the important issues and opportunities related to autonomous vehicles.”
The caucus is supported by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the National Federation of the Blind, and the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association.