US House lawmakers unveil AV caucus

From Transport Topics.

Two House lawmakers formed a group to promote autonomous vehicle policies on Capitol Hill. Their aim is to generate support from colleagues for comprehensive legislation targeting the technology.

This month, Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Bob Latta (R-Ohio) launched the Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus. The policymakers are longtime advocates for applying autonomous technologies in the national transportation arena.

“If the United States is going to stay [at] the forefront of innovation, manufacturing and safety, we must ensure our nation is engaging all stakeholders, making bold investments, and working across the aisle to get the necessary policies right to support the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles,” Dingell said Aug. 8. “I’m proud to join Rep. Latta to launch the bipartisan Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus, which will aid us in this effort, as well as provide a space for like-minded members to learn, discuss, and collaborate on all the important issues and opportunities related to autonomous vehicles.”

The congresswoman, a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, added, “The future of American mobility and leadership depends on us getting this right and working together.”

Latta, who also sits on the Energy and Commerce panel, has authored legislation targeting autonomous-centric policies. “For generations, the United States has paved the way in innovative vehicle technology. Autonomous vehicles are the next step forward. In order for this technology to succeed, we must educate, advocate and create a framework to implement their use,” Latta explained.

“This technology will improve the lives of millions of Americans while simultaneously providing people living with disabilities and seniors increased mobility and independence,” he continued. “That is why I am excited to announce the launch of the Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus with Rep. Dingell to educate members of Congress on [autonomous vehicle] technology and to work toward a national framework so that [autonomous vehicles] can continue to safely expand throughout the country.”

See the complete article online at Transport Topics.