A new bill introduced by New York State Senator Pete Harckham has raised concerns about the safety and job security implications of autonomous vehicles (AVs). The legislation, S.7758, aims to require a licensed human operator to be physically present in any AV weighing 10,000 pounds or more on New York roads. If passed, the bill would not only protect public safety but also safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of workers in the New York trucking industry.
The need for such legislation comes as reports of accidents and disruptions caused by driverless vehicles have emerged across the country. In one case, a woman was seriously injured after being struck and dragged by a Cruise robotaxi in San Francisco. These incidents highlight the potential dangers associated with autonomous technology and the need for human oversight to ensure road safety.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, representing 1.3 million workers, has voiced its support for Senator Harckham’s bill. The organization commends the legislation for prioritizing safety and warns that allowing AVs without human operators on New York roads would be a lethal decision. The Teamsters are urging New York State lawmakers to join Senator Harckham in passing S.7758 to save lives and protect the public.
In addition to the safety concerns, the bill also aims to protect the jobs of truckers and other workers in the New York trucking industry. With approximately 270,000 jobs at stake, including over 58,300 current heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, S.7758 seeks to ensure that good jobs remain in the state. By requiring a licensed driver in AVs, the legislation aims to provide job security for thousands of New Yorkers.
Senator Harckham emphasizes the importance of public safety and job security in the face of technological advancements. According to him, the bill’s common-sense measure will offer greater protection for residents and property while preserving the livelihoods of over 270,000 workers in the state.
As the debate over AVs and their impact on public safety and job security continues, it is essential for lawmakers to consider the potential risks and benefits associated with autonomous technology. Striking a balance between innovation and human oversight is crucial to ensure the well-being of both the public and the workforce.
The source of the article is from the blog krama.net