Teamsters urge Nevada committee to support Senate Bill 395 on autonomous vehicles

Senate Bill 395 took center stage during the Nevada Senate Committee on Growth and Infrastructure meeting, with strong support from various labor representatives advocating for the safety of professional drivers in the face of advancing autonomous vehicle technology.

Francisco Miranda, a business agent with Teamsters Local 631, emphasized the critical role of human judgment in emergency situations, urging the committee to pass the bill. "Our drivers are the captains of their ships," he stated, highlighting their ability to make quick decisions that automated systems may not handle effectively.

Beverly Williams from Teamsters Local 986 echoed these sentiments, criticizing tech companies for their vague assurances regarding the safety of automated vehicles. "Simply stopping where you are is not sufficient in mitigating risk," she argued, reinforcing the need for human oversight in driving scenarios.

The call for support was echoed by multiple union members, including Amy Gately and Tamara Jamieson, who raised concerns about the implications of driverless technology, particularly regarding the safety of children on school buses. Jamieson pointed out the extensive training human drivers undergo, which cannot be replicated by machines.

As the meeting progressed, numerous callers from various unions, including the Transport Workers Union and the American Federation of Government Employees, voiced their support for SB 395, stressing the necessity of having a human behind the wheel to manage potential crises effectively.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing concern over the integration of autonomous vehicles into public transportation and the need for legislative measures to ensure safety and accountability. As the debate continues, the outcome of SB 395 could significantly impact the future of transportation in Nevada, balancing technological advancement with public safety.