The House approved landmark legislation on Wednesday that would harness innovation by advancing self-driving vehicle technology that aims to curb traffic fatalities, a bipartisan effort supported by U.S. Reps. Greg Walden (R-OR), Fred Upton (R-MI) and Mimi Walters (R-CA).
“Self-driving cars hold the promise of making America’s roads safer, creating new economic opportunities and helping seniors and those with disabilities live more independently,” Walden, the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said.
The Self-Drive Act, H.R. 3388, would designate clear roles for state and federal governments in regulating self-driving cars. It would also update federal motor vehicle safety standards to reflect advancements in autonomous technology and create new opportunities for research and development.
The majority of traffic accidents are caused by human error. Speaking in support of the bill on Wednesday, Walden noted that research indicates self-driving cars could reduce traffic-related deaths by 90 percent, which would save 30,000 lives each year.
“The Self Drive Act strikes the critical balance of enhancing consumer safety while promoting the continued development of this cutting-edge technology,” Walden said. “This bipartisan bill paves the way for advanced collision avoidance systems and self-driving cars nationwide, and ensures that America stays a global leader in innovation.”
Walden’s committee held more than 250 meetings with manufacturers, suppliers, tech companies, senior groups, state government officials, disability advocates and other stakeholders before voting to advance the bill from committee in July.
Upton, the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, said the Self-Drive Act would bolster economic growth and create new jobs in Michigan and across the country.
“As the birthplace of the automotive industry, Michigan is a well-known home to innovative suppliers and manufacturers that make our cars and trucks safer, more efficient and more affordable,” Upton said. “We are also home to a nexus of engineering, research and workforce talent, which makes us perfect for the development of the next phase of vehicular mobility: self-driving cars.”
Walters, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, noted traffic congestion in Orange County where her district is based is a way of life.
“Self-driving cars have the ability to dramatically reduce traffic congestion and commute times on our roads. By reducing traffic congestion, Orange County residents will have more time to spend with their families and in their communities. I proudly supported the Self-Drive Act, which would allow testing of this life-changing technology, further advancing the integration of self-driving vehicles into our society. The information gathered from this testing will dramatically improve public safety.”
Self-driving cars also would improve access to transportation for senior citizens and those with disabilities, as well as for communities that lack access to public transportation, Walden added.