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Today, Congressman Bob Latta’s (R-OH5) legislation to implement a federal framework for autonomous vehicles (AVs) was the topic of discussion during a congressional hearing on the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce.

Even with vehicle safety standards improving over the years, traffic-related accidents have steadily been on the rise. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2022, 42,795 people died in motor vehicle traffic accidents and 42,939 fatalities were reported in 2021. In addition to improving safety on our roads, AVs have the potential to increase mobility for seniors and those who live with health challenges or disabilities. And with China already testing AV technology in the United States, currently logging nearly half a million miles on roads in California, the United States must prioritize AV technology to prevent ceding competitive advantages to other countries, like China.  

During the hearing, Latta provided the following remarks in support of advancing a bipartisan AV federal framework to keep the United States at the forefront of AV innovation and counter Communist China: 

“American automotive leadership is vital for the future of our national security. But autonomous vehicles aren’t just the future – they are the present – and the harsh reality is the United States is already falling behind on the global stage. 

“Communist China poses an immediate threat to our national security through their use of driver-less cars within our very borders. As Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, I am all too familiar with our ongoing efforts to rip-and-replace Communist Chinese technology from our communications infrastructure. If we do not ensure our laws support innovation, the United States will be forced to consider how to secure our roadways after Communist China has already collected massive amounts of data on our transportation systems. 

“We have the privilege on the Energy and Commerce Committee to look over the horizon to enact laws and regulations that pave the way for American innovation and global leadership. 

“In the 115^th Congress, I felt strongly that AV technology and an AV federal framework were the next frontier for legislative action within this Committee.  Although I have remained focused on meaningful legislative action over the last six years, I have been disappointed in the lack of bipartisan action by some on AVs. 

“Finding a solution is essential. 

“Over the last several months, I have been working closely with my friend across the aisle, the gentlelady from Michigan’s sixth district, to craft that solution through a federal legislative framework. I am committed to continuing those conversations and drafting a bill that supports the safe development and deployment of fully autonomous technology.

“The time to act is now. 

“With a federal roadmap for autonomous vehicle deployment, we as Americans all win. We simply cannot sit back and watch other countries, especially our adversaries, lead because we cannot work together to come to an agreement. 

“I am pleased we are furthering this discussion in today’s hearing, and I look forward to hearing from our witnesses.”

Latta leads on autonomous vehicles:

·         In 2017, Latta successfully advanced landmark legislation, the SELF DRIVE Act, through the U.S. House of Representatives.  

·         In 2022, Latta and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) launched the bipartisan Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus. 

·         In May of 2023, Latta was awarded the AV Champion Award by the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association for his efforts to keep America at the forefront of AV innovation.