CEI Commends Congress for Supporting Self-Driving Car Technology

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Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the SELF DRIVE Act, the first major congressional action on vehicle automation technology, specifically aimed at clarifying federal and state roles in automobile regulation. CEI senior fellow and transportation expert, Marc Scribner, commends members of Congress for supporting this life-saving technology, although he argues the legislation could use more work.

“Self-driving cars can offer consumers massive safety and mobility benefits, particularly the disabled and elderly who don’t currently have access to convenient and affordable transportation options,” said Scribner. “With the SELF DRIVE Act, members of Congress are supporting the development of these technologies and recognizing that excessive government regulation threatens progress. The bill is not perfect, but it is a welcome step in the right direction.”

CEI also participates in the Coalition for Future Mobility that also supported passage of the SELF DRIVE Act. The Coalition also released a statement:

“Congress has a tremendous opportunity to accelerate the deployment of self-driving technologies that have the potential to save lives, reduce traffic congestion, reduce fuel use and carbon emissions, expand personal mobility and meet our nation’s current and future infrastructure, environmental and economic challenges. The Coalition supports legislative measures that will optimize the safe testing and deployment of automated vehicles in a technology-neutral manner while continuing to let innovation thrive.” 

See more from Marc Scribner on this issue and legislation: