AVIA Applauds Introduction of AMERICA DRIVES Act

Washington – The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) released a statement from CEO Jeff Farrah following the introduction of the AMERICA DRIVES ACT, new federal autonomous trucking legislation from Congressman Vince Fong:

“Autonomous vehicles will support America’s farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers by significantly improving our supply chain. The U.S. needs a federal autonomous vehicle framework to sustain American leadership on AVs and beat our strategic competitors. Congressman Fong’s bill is exactly the bold action needed to cement U.S. leadership in this transformative field. By embracing the benefits of autonomous trucking, this bill would strengthen American supply chains, enhance road safety, and keep the U.S. at the forefront of global transportation innovation. We look forward to working with lawmakers and the Administration to advance smart AV policy that prioritizes both safety and innovation.”

AVIA recently released its federal policy framework, Securing American Leadership in Autonomous Vehicles, which outlines key legislative recommendations, including the establishment of a National AV Safety Data Repository and action on rulemakings at the Department of Transportation.

During a House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, Farrah urged lawmakers to move swiftly on legislation that unlocks the full safety and economic potential of autonomous vehicles while keeping the United States ahead of global competitors.

“Across the country AVs are providing valuable transportation services, moving both passengers through autonomous ride-hailing fleets and goods through trucking fleets and middle- and last-mile delivery operations,” Farrah said in his testimony. “This progress has occurred in the absence of a federal policy framework for AVs and is therefore leaving U.S. companies at a disadvantage to competitors in China and other countries.

“Congress can and should lead the way on a federal policy framework that both answers key questions on vehicle design, construction, and performance and facilitates safer roads, more accessible vehicles, and strengthened supply chains.”