Schakowsky statement on Autonomous Vehicle Legislation

“Given the coming boom of autonomous vehicles on our nation’s roads, it is important that Republicans and Democrats work together to provide a national framework that recognizes the impacts of this emerging new technology and ensures the safety of all Americans. I thank my friend and colleague Chairman Bob Latta for engaging with me on a bipartisan basis to craft the SELF DRIVE Act, legislation that I hope can be a starting point for transparent improvements in consultation with the Senate. We need to act carefully – working with consumer advocates and industry representatives – and take the time needed to get it right.

“Unfortunately, the Senate draft released this week – with a 24-hour deadline for feedback from stakeholders -- fails the test. It falls woefully short in terms of passenger safety, data security, privacy, and regulatory accountability. These are issues that must be addressed thoughtfully and carefully. This bill, without time for review and comment and with no consultation with the House, is not ready for primetime. It is our responsibility to get the best bill possible – not rush it through by attaching it to a must-pass, end-of-year spending bill. I urge my Senate colleagues to work with us – and outside groups -- before moving ahead.”