Colorado's AV Bill: A Game Changer or a Roadblock?

Colorado's AV Bill: A Game Changer or a Roadblock?

The battle for the future of autonomous vehicles (AVs) is heating up, and Colorado is at the center of the storm. The state Senate has just passed HB 25-1122, a bill that could revolutionize—or derail—the AV industry. This legislation mandates the presence of a trained and licensed human safety operator in any AV operated for commercial use. The Teamsters, a powerful labor union, are pushing hard for Governor Jared Polis to sign this bill into law. But is this a smart move, or a step backward for innovation?

Why the Teamsters Are Pushing for This Bill

The Teamsters argue that this legislation is crucial for protecting workers and ensuring public safety. Spencer Hogue, President of Teamsters Joint Council 3, says, "Gov. Polis has the opportunity to show Coloradans that he’s willing to take their side in the fight against Silicon Valley billionaires who want to automate their jobs and make our roads more dangerous." The union believes that mandating human oversight will prevent job losses and enhance safety on the roads.

The Economic and Safety Benefits

Mandating human oversight in commercial AV operations could bring several potential economic and safety benefits. Firstly, it could enhance safety by ensuring that a human driver is always present to take control in case of emergencies or system failures. This could reduce the risk of accidents and improve public trust in AV technology. Secondly, it could create job opportunities for human drivers, which could have positive economic impacts. For example, the presence of a human driver could provide a sense of security for passengers, potentially increasing the adoption of AV services and generating more revenue for AV companies. Additionally, mandating human oversight could help in the development and refinement of AV technology by providing real-world data and feedback, which could lead to technological advancements and cost savings in the long run.

The Potential Drawbacks

However, there are also potential drawbacks to mandating human oversight. One significant drawback is the increased operational cost due to the need to employ human drivers. This could make AV services more expensive, potentially reducing their competitiveness against traditional human-driven services. Additionally, the presence of a human driver could limit the full potential of AV technology, as the human driver might intervene in situations where the AV system could have handled the task more efficiently. This could lead to a slower adoption of fully autonomous technology and a delay in realizing the full economic benefits of AVs.

The Broader Impact

The fight for AV legislation isn't just about Colorado. The Teamsters are advocating for similar legislation in California, Delaware, Nevada, Oregon, and Texas. This push highlights the broader national debate over the role of human oversight in AV technology. Dean Modecker, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 455, emphasizes, "This is not a hard choice — either support Big Tech or support the will of the people. The Governor knows what the right thing to do is."

What's Next for Colorado?

Governor Polis now faces a critical decision. Will he sign HB 25-1122 into law, potentially slowing down the progress of AV technology in Colorado? Or will he veto the bill, risking the wrath of the Teamsters and their supporters? The stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the future of AV technology in the state and beyond.

Stay Tuned for More Developments

This is a story to watch closely. The future of AV technology in Colorado—and potentially across the nation—hangs in the balance. Whether you're an investor, a tech enthusiast, or just someone who cares about the future of transportation, this is a debate that will shape the roads of tomorrow. So, keep your eyes on Colorado and get ready for the next big chapter in the AV saga.