Senator Cortese Issues Statement on CPUC Granting Waymo’s Expansion

Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) issued the following statement regarding the California Public Utilities Commission's decision to grant Waymo permission to expand across 22 cities in the South Bay Area and Los Angeles. This decision comes without evident consultation with local governments and follows a 120-day suspension on Waymo’s expansion made by the CPUC just 11 days ago.

“While we support the innovation of autonomous vehicle technology, it's crucial that regulation occurs at both state and local levels to maintain the public safety standards that California upholds for all vehicles on our roads. My SB 915 will empower local communities with oversight over autonomous vehicles, ensuring that the safety of our streets is a collaborative effort between state and local authorities. My bill isn't about eliminating state oversight but augmenting it with local expertise to protect pedestrians, school zones, cyclists, and other motorists.”

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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