by New Draft Law on Autonomous Trucks in the USA
Congressman Vince Fong has introduced a bill aimed at creating a single national system for regulating autonomous trucks. This initiative is designed to overcome discrepancies in the legislation of various states, driver shortages, and to increase the efficiency of freight transportation. According to the proposal, Level 4 and Level 5 autonomous trucks will be able to operate across the country without drivers or remote operators.
The bill, titled the “America Drives Act,” provides for granting the Department of Transportation the authority to regulate autonomous trucks. Its author notes that the USA is lagging behind other countries, such as China or Europe, in the implementation of similar technologies. Currently, 35 states allow testing or use of autonomous trucks, but different rules complicate their widespread application.
“While Europe and China are actively integrating autonomous trucks into their supply chains, America is ‘asleep at the wheel,’ limited by conflicting state laws,” Fong stated.
The Problem of Driver Shortage
The freight transportation industry faces a constant shortage of drivers, although views on this problem are divided. Some claim there is a lack of qualified specialists, others that companies simply are not filling vacancies. The high level of staff turnover among newcomers complicates the situation, and autonomous trucks could become a partial solution.
Union representatives, including Teamsters President Sean O’Brien, emphasize the need to protect jobs when introducing new technologies. At the same time, autonomous systems will not require limitations on working hours or drug testing, which could significantly change logistics processes.
The draft law also provides for updating the rules for autonomous systems by 2027. If approved, this could be an important step in transforming the transportation industry, combining innovation with economic efficiency. However, discussions about the impact on the labor market and safety remain open, especially considering the different approaches in the states.
