A new bill has been introduced by New York State Sen. Pete Harckham, aiming to address the growing concern over the safety of autonomous vehicles and protect the jobs of those in the trucking industry. The bill, known as S.7758, would mandate the presence of trained human operators in all autonomous vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds on New York roads.
The introduction of this bill has received support from various stakeholders, including labor unions and lawmakers from both political parties, who recognize the importance of maintaining both safety and job security in the era of rapidly advancing autonomous vehicle technology.
“The Teamsters applaud Sen. Harckham for introducing legislation that will keep New York roads safe,” said Louis A. Picani, president of Teamsters Local 456, acknowledging the positive impact this bill could have on road safety.
The proposed law not only aims to enhance road safety but also to protect the livelihoods of those in the trucking industry. New York’s trucking sector provides approximately 270,000 jobs, with around 58,300 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. By requiring a licensed driver to be present in autonomous vehicles, the bill seeks to ensure that these jobs remain in New York, benefiting the people who contribute to the state’s economy.
Harckham emphasized the dual purpose of the bill, stating, “The integral role of the trucking industry in our lives means we have to be proactive and vigilant about public safety and job security when it comes to technological innovations like autonomous operating vehicles.” By striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and maintaining public safety and employment stability, the bill addresses the concerns surrounding autonomous vehicles.
With incidents involving autonomous vehicles causing accidents and traffic disruptions, including a fatal incident in San Francisco, this bill responds to the need for regulation and oversight in the autonomous trucking industry. It recognizes the importance of human supervision to ensure safe operation and prevent potential accidents.
As autonomous vehicle technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to establish regulations that prioritize safety while also considering the impact on jobs and employment. The introduction of S.7758 in New York is a significant step towards creating a framework that addresses these concerns and promotes the responsible deployment of autonomous vehicles in the trucking industry.
The source of the article is from the blog bitperfect.pe