Preparing for Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicle technology is rapidly changing how cities and companies think about transportation infrastructure and the future of mobility.  The Bay Area Council Autonomous Vehicle Subcommittee supports the emerging technological innovation in the region and brings together stakeholders to ensure policies aimed at autonomous vehicle transportation technology serve Bay Area residents, workers and employers. Subcommittee members had a unique opportunity this week to discuss federal transportation rules, regulations, and policies with Venable LLP attorney Ariel Wolf, former counsel to the Deputy Secretary of Transportation at the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Wolf helped launch the Department’s Non-traditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council, and developed policies and regulations on autonomous vehicles. At the event, Subcommittee members engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about the Department of Transportation’s vision for nationwide autonomous vehicle deployment, safety rule-making, vehicle classifications, and the regulatory uncertainty surrounding the jurisdiction of local, state and federal rule-making bodies on autonomous vehicles. As a regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles continues to evolve, the Bay Area Council is working to promote thoughtful policy to optimize the benefits autonomous vehicles can deliver to the region. To engage in the Council’s autonomous vehicle work, please contact Policy Manager Kelly Obranowicz.