U.S. Bill Targets Robotaxi Interference with Emergency Responders

A federal bill, the AV Emergency Response Coordination Act, was introduced by Representative Kevin Mullin (D‑CA) to establish nationwide safety standards for autonomous‑vehicle operators after a series of incidents in which robotaxis blocked ambulances, fire trucks and entered active crime scenes. The legislation would require companies such as Waymo to provide clear emergency‑response protocols, set up a 24‑hour hotline for first responders, and allow public officials to digitally “geofence” autonomous vehicles away from emergency zones. The bill also directs the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to develop minimum national standards.

San Francisco officials, including Mayor Daniel Lurie and Fire Chief Dean Crispen, voiced support, noting that robotaxis have repeatedly impeded access to fire stations and ambulance deployment facilities. Mullin stated, “We have seen disturbing, and frankly, an unacceptable number of incidents where autonomous vehicles inadvertently interfere with emergency responders.” If enacted, the measure would give federal regulators new authority to oversee how self‑driving cars interact with emergency personnel across the United States.