Minneapolis and St. Paul propose regulations for autonomous vehicles

Twin Cities municipalities are moving to regulate autonomous vehicle operations as companies like Waymo prepare for commercial launches in the region.

In Minneapolis, City Council Member Robin Wonsley introduced the ‘Workers Drive Minneapolis’ ordinance. The proposed rules would require autonomous vehicle companies to obtain city licenses, prohibit remote vehicle operation, and mandate a human safety monitor in the driver’s seat. These monitors would be required to hold a Minnesota driver’s license and earn at least the municipal minimum wage. Advocates suggest the measure protects rideshare jobs, while Waymo has characterized such rules as a barrier to safety and accessibility technology.

In St. Paul, City Council President Rebecca Noecker has authored a resolution calling for a comprehensive study of ‘autonomous vehicle labor and community protections’ before any robotaxi roll-outs. The proposed study would examine impacts on transportation workers, public safety, emergency response, winter-weather operations, and the needs of disabled residents. It also aims to evaluate the city’s authority to license and monitor commercial autonomous operations.