Government regulation and encouragement of AVs are yet to be determined. AVs are not just new technology; they are a new way of life through vastly different transportation. And transportation is at the center of our lives. Governments have instituted regulations controlling transportation for almost a century at the federal, state, and local levels. So, it is reasonable to expect many questions regarding the regulation of AVs.
What levels of government will regulate AVs?
Like other forms of transportation, in the U.S. AVs will be regulated at the national, state, and local levels.
What will the federal government regulate?
The primary focus of federal auto regulations in the U.S. is on making cars legal to produce and sell by implementing federal safety standards on all manufacturers. It is expected that the focus will be the same for AVs.
Are there new federal regulations yet on AVs?
No, there were none authorized by the end of 2018. The house of representatives passed a bill called the Safely Ensuring Lives Future Deployment and Research in Vehicle Evolution (the SELF-DRIVE act) in 2017. This bill would give the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the authority to regulate the design, manufacture, and performance of AVs. It also would pave the way for AVs by facilitating testing and early deployment of a limited number of vehicles.
The Senate had a very similar bill, the American Vision for Safer Transportation through Advancement of Revolutionary Technologies (the AV-START act). However, the bill was not brought to a vote in the Senate in 2018. By federal legislative rules, both the senate and house bills have expired.
Why wasn't the Senate bill voted on?
In political logic, it is sometimes better not to have a vote taken than be perceived as favoring or being against an issue. The regulation of AVs has both proponents and opponents.
What groups lobbied against these bills?
Some industry groups fear the advent of AVs and lobby to delay them as much as possible. This includes industries such as insurance and trial lawyers that are threatened if auto accidents are significantly reduced. It also includes auto dealers who are threatened by a reduction in car sales as ARS grows. Generally, these industry groups fund organizations with “user-friendly” names to do their lobbying.
Who was for these bills?
Most of the companies developing AVs were supportive because federal regulation could reduce some of the roadblocks they face, and it could reduce different restrictions in each state. Also, groups such as AARP, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and groups supporting those with disabilities were supportive of these bills.
Will the lack of federal regulation deter the introduction of AVs?
It probably won't have a significant affect. AVs will be first introduced as fleet-based ARS, and these could first be launched in states that are supportive.
How are AVs regulated at the state level?
State governments are responsible for vehicle registration, licensing, insurance, and safety. These regulations within each state are probably the most important for the introduction of AVs. Some states have passed statutes that permit and even encourage the testing of AVs. Others states have passed tighter restrictions that will delay or deter the use of AVs in their states.
How will local governments work with AVs?
Local governments are where the practical issues come into play. Local road systems need to be compatible with AVs. It will help if local governments provide ARS parking and drop-off and pick-up locations. Some local governments will embrace AVs, particularly ARS, to provide benefits to their citizens. Others will resist the change and discourage AVs.
Will it cost local governments a lot to support AVs?
The cost of supporting AVs is expected to be minimal. Minor road improvements such as repainting road lines, adding or moving some traffic signals are examples. If necessary, the ARS companies would most likely be willing to help fund these expenses, particularly if they are given exclusive privileges for a period.