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During an Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce hearing today, Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) focused on the future of autonomous vehicles.

To watch Latta’s opening remarks, click here. 

Latta highlighted how self-driving technology can prevent accidents and loss of life on American roadways. He also discussed legislation he authored last Congress, the SELF DRIVE Act, which passed the Energy and Commerce Committee by a 54-0 vote and was approved on the House floor by a voice vote.

Latta’s opening remarks as prepared:

Self-driving cars are the way of the future and will revolutionize our nation’s highways. Three years ago, as Chairman of this subcommittee, I began the process to legislate on self-driving cars. We took over 300 meetings before drafting a bill that found the right balance of encouraging innovation and implementing federal guidance where appropriate.  Congress’ role isn’t just to ensure the United States is a leader in the development of autonomous vehicles - Congress must act to provide Americans with safer vehicles so that we can better prevent accidents and loss of life on our roads.  

Self-driving cars will make Americans safer and give mobility and independence to seniors and individuals with disabilities. These are just a few of the reasons why the SELF DRIVE Act was so significant, and why it was passed out of the House in 2017.

I am pleased to see this Committee continuing to focus on this critical issue and urge the Chairwoman to swiftly consider bipartisan AV legislation.

Thank you, Madam Chairwoman, I yield back.

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