Portland weighs new robotaxi rules
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Portland is grappling with whether to welcome robotaxis to the city.
State of play: While self-driving cars are permitted in about half the country, the laws would have to be changed in Oregon, where a human operator is still required behind the wheel in most cases.
- A bill that would have allowed Waymo to deploy its vehicles in the state died in committee during the recent legislative session, and several Portland city councilors testified in opposition.
- But the Portland Bureau of Transportation is weighing rule changes that would permit for-hire automated vehicles on city streets, albeit with a number of restrictions, requirements and conditions.
The latest: On Friday, the city announced it was extending the comment period for the rule changes, giving the public until April 10 to weigh in. Click here to share your opinion.
The intrigue: Waymo replaced its global head of public policy last year to deal with mounting headwinds.
- Justin Kintz previously led the policy team at Uber during its early growth period, when the ride-hailing network was unwelcome just about everywhere, and he'll likely draw on that experience to try to push local legislation that is more favorable toward robotaxis.
What they're saying: "The biggest hurdle Waymo faces is not understanding local politics," says AV policy expert Grayson Brulte, founder and CEO of The Road to Autonomy, a strategic advisory firm.
- "They're going into markets where the policy is not ready yet," he said.