Assembly Speaker pro Tempore Issues Statement on Veto of AB 316 – Autonomous Trucking

Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) today released the following statement:

“I'm deeply disappointed at the veto of AB 316. This bill actually affirmatively acknowledged that we will move forward with testing and deployment of autonomous heavy vehicles. Calling this proposal a ban is a disheartening mischaracterization of the intent and process outlined in the bill — allowing autonomous vehicle technology to progress but requiring a human safety operator while collaboration between the Legislative and the Executive branches proceeds," said Speaker pro Tempore Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters).   

“A decision of this magnitude should incorporate all perspectives, including local public safety experts and elected officials.  This is why California Highway Patrol personnel, California’s local police and firefighters, 105 out of 120 of my bipartisan colleagues, countless local elected officials, and the leading candidates for the U.S. Senate – Reps Lee, Porter and Schiff – all supported this bill," continued Aguiar-Curry.  "We do not make the best decisions by shutting out thoughtful, public discussion and public scrutiny of actual data.  I accept the Governor’s offer to continue to work on these critical issues together, which is what AB 316 actually proposed.  I respectfully disagree with his decision, but hope that we will have a truly meaningful process to protect the public and working people going forward.”

Aguiar-Curry represents the 4th Assembly District, which includes all of Yolo, Napa, Colusa, and Lake Counties, and part of Sonoma County.

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