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Yesterday, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) introduced the Safely Ensuring Lives Future Deployment and Research in Vehicle Evolution Act of 2026 (SELF DRIVE Act). As first reported in Punchbowl News, this bill strengthens safety requirements, clarifies NHTSA’s authority, improves crash data transparency, and promotes U.S. leadership in autonomous vehicles innovation.  

Roadway safety remains a critical issue nationwide. Human error remains the leading cause of car accidents nationwide. Each year, nearly 40,000 Americans lose their lives in traffic-related crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated six million accidents occur annually, with 94 percent attributed to human error.  

Additionally, it is crucial that the United States maintain its leadership in the technology competition with China, particularly as China seeks to dominate the global autonomous vehicle market.  

“Autonomous vehicle technology has the potential to protect millions of Americans from traffic accidents and fatalities, while making our communities safer and more accessible. With the right framework in place, we can prioritize safety, transparency, and innovation while keeping pace with advancements in AV technology. The SELF DRIVE Act updates federal motor vehicle safety laws to establish a clear, national framework for the resting, deployment, and oversight of autonomous vehicles, ensuring consistent standards across states and promoting trust in this emerging technology. By strengthening America’s role in developing and regulating the autonomous vehicle framework, we can ensure innovation thrives here at home. Standing up to China means keeping these jobs in America and securing our position as a global leader in autonomous vehicle development and manufacturing,” Latta said.  

“The U.S. has both an opportunity and responsibility to lead the world in the development and deployment of next-generation technologies. The SELF DRIVE Act can create the necessary framework to facilitate autonomous vehicle innovation and ensure Americans can safely enjoy the benefits of these advancements,” said Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie.

"The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association commends Representative Latta on introduction of the SELF DRIVE Act, which will help establish a federal policy framework for autonomous vehicles. Representative Latta’s legislation prioritizes safety through rigorous oversight while clearing the path for American companies to lead globally. This bill creates what autonomous vehicle leaders need: clear rules, strong safety standards, and the regulatory certainty needed to scale deployment nationwide,” said Jeff Farrah, CEO of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association. 

 “Honda commends Congressman Latta’s efforts to advance the SELF DRIVE Act of 2026 to establish a single national standard for automated vehicle technology. Honda supports a clear regulatory framework for the safe and responsible deployment of AV technology in America that will promote long-term U.S. leadership in the global auto market,” said Jennifer Thomas, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, American Honda Motor Company.  

“It’s tempting to think of the SELF DRIVE Act as a technology bill. It’s more than that. This is really a plan to advance American competitiveness and national security. Rep. Latta gets this, and it’s why he has never given up on a national autonomous vehicle framework. Countries around the world are racing to shape the AV future. It’s time for Congress to get a bill across the finish line and clear the way for more AV testing and safe deployment here at home," said John Bozzella, president and CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation.

"AVs represent a generational opportunity to save lives, strengthen supply chains, and expand access to transportation for millions of Americans. The technology is ready – what we need now is clear, consistent national policy. Congress must ensure America remains the global leader in mobility by advancing a regulatory framework that prioritizes certainty, safety and American competitiveness," said Gary Shapiro, Executive Chair and CEO, Consumer Technology Association.

"The SELF DRIVE Act would establish a clear national framework for the deployment of autonomous vehicles that will save American lives and unlock significant growth in US manufacturing. Thank you, Congressman Latta, for your continued leadership. Tesla remains a committed partner in advancing policies that prioritize safety, accessibility, and American competitiveness," said Tesla, Inc.

Background: 

Congressman Latta has been working on autonomous vehicle legislation since 2017. During the 115th Congress, his SELF DRIVE Act passed the House, making it the first Congressional proposal to address autonomous vehicle technology.   

Last month, Congressman Latta participated in a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade hearing to discuss the draft of his bill, to watch the discussion, click here.

Congressman Latta is the co-chair of the Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus; a bipartisan caucus aimed at educating Congress on how autonomous vehicle technology can improve the safety and accessibility of the nation’s roads.