Why a U.S. senator is pushing to block fully driverless cars

Senator Josh Hawley

Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri announced he would introduce an ‘Autonomous Vehicle Safety Act’ that would require a human safety operator in any autonomous vehicle on public roads, effectively banning fully driverless operation.

This legislation represents a strong federal response to concerns about emerging self-driving technologies and their potential impacts.

Safety concerns

Hawley argues that fully autonomous vehicles pose serious safety risks, especially in complex or unpredictable traffic situations where AI systems might fail. 

He believes that removing the human driver from the equation could lead to accidents that autonomous systems are ill-equipped to prevent. The bill insists that a human presence is essential for immediate intervention, aiming to keep roads safer as these technologies develop.

Protecting jobs

Hawley points to the potential impact on millions of U.S. driving jobs, including 2.1 million heavy-truck drivers and 1.6 million delivery drivers, if vehicles operate without drivers.

Hawley’s bill seeks to protect these workers, emphasizing the economic and social costs of widespread job loss and advocating for a cautious approach to automation that considers the human workforce.

Labor unions

Labor unions, particularly the Teamsters, have advocated for human-operator requirements for AVs to protect jobs and safety. He warns that driverless technology could dramatically reduce union membership, weakening these organizations’ bargaining power and support networks. 

Hawley frames his legislation as a defense of union jobs and their role in maintaining fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for members.

Opposition to AI

Hawley’s position fits his broader skepticism of AI-driven automation; in a Sept. 4, 2025, speech, he argued, ‘Only humans ought to drive cars and trucks.

His push to ban fully driverless cars reflects this larger skepticism, and his call for stronger regulatory frameworks around AI to manage its societal impacts responsibly.

This bill is the toughest

While many lawmakers focus on setting standards and data reporting, Hawley’s draft would bar driverless operation nationwide, a more sweeping approach than bills like S.1798 (Autonomous Vehicle Acceleration Act of 2025) or House AV-data proposals.

It always mandates a human driver, going further than existing proposals focused mainly on testing or gradual integration. Hawley’s draft is far more sweeping than recent federal proposals, most of which set standards or data reporting rather than a nationwide ban.

Driver-assistance

The proposal would not restrict driver assistance (SAE Levels 0–2) features like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping, provided a human remains responsible.

This distinction shows acceptance of automation that enhances driving safety without replacing the human driver entirely.

Supporters argue

Those favoring the bill stress the importance of human oversight in preventing accidents. They say that while AI can handle many driving tasks, unexpected scenarios require quick judgment and intervention by a human. 

Maintaining a driver behind the wheel ensures immediate response capability, critical for protecting passengers, pedestrians, and other road users during emergencies.

Critics

Some point to Waymo’s publicly reported driverless-mile data, indicating lower collision rates than human benchmarks, while noting the need for independent validation.

Critics advocate for balanced regulation that encourages innovation while addressing safety concerns rather than imposing outright bans that could stifle development.

Industry leaders

Companies developing autonomous vehicle technology express concerns that legislation like Hawley’s creates uncertainty that may deter investment and slow innovation. 

They emphasize the need for consistent federal guidelines that allow testing and gradual deployment while maintaining safety standards. Ambiguous or restrictive laws, they warn, could put the U.S. at a disadvantage in the global race for driverless technology.

Autonomous vehicle

Despite controversies, autonomous vehicle technology is advancing quickly, with several manufacturers conducting pilot programs in various states. Progress in AI, sensors, and data analytics improves vehicles’ ability to navigate complex traffic environments. 

Still, full commercial deployment faces challenges, including regulatory hurdles and technical reliability, meaning widespread driverless cars are not yet commonplace.

Public opinion

Surveys reveal Americans are divided in their views on autonomous vehicles. While many are excited about the potential for increased safety and convenience, others worry about technological failures, data privacy, and job losses.

This mixed public sentiment plays a significant role in shaping policy debates and influences lawmakers like Hawley, who respond to constituent concerns about rapid automation.

Some states already permit

Multiple states permit no-driver operation under specified conditions. California grants ‘driverless’ deployment permits; Texas and Florida statutes allow AVs to operate without a human behind the wheel.

Hawley’s bill would override these state laws by imposing a federal ban on driverless cars, potentially creating conflicts between federal authority and states’ regulatory powers, complicating the future of autonomous vehicle deployment nationwide.

The bill

The proposed ban on fully driverless cars is part of a larger national conversation about AI’s impact on the workforce, privacy, and ethics. Policymakers are grappling with balancing technological innovation with protecting jobs and public safety. 

Hawley’s legislation highlights these tensions and the challenge of regulating fast-moving AI technologies responsibly.

Chances of passing

While Hawley is vocal about his opposition, the bill’s future in Congress is uncertain. Some legislators support more moderate regulations and recognize the potential benefits of autonomous vehicles for safety and efficiency. 

Others agree with Hawley’s cautionary approach. The debate reflects broader divisions on how aggressively emerging tech can be regulated while fostering innovation.

Want proof of the rush? Ford sees higher EV sales ahead of the $7,500 tax credit deadline.

The driverless car

The ongoing discussion about banning fully driverless cars underscores the problematic balance between embracing new technology and protecting workers and public safety. 

As autonomous vehicle technology matures, lawmakers must weigh potential benefits against economic and ethical concerns, crafting policies that promote innovation without ignoring the impact on human jobs and society.

Want to see who’s leading the charge? BYD overtakes Tesla as Australian EV sales rise 9.7% in August.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.