#United States #Teamsters #Santa Monica #Waymo #NHTSA

Teamsters Demand for Waymo's License Suspension

The ongoing debate over the safety of autonomous vehicles has taken a new turn as Teamsters California calls for the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to suspend Waymo's operating license indefinitely. This urgent request comes in the wake of a troubling incident where a Waymo robotaxi struck a child. This event has prompted serious concerns not only about the safety of these vehicles but also about the overarching implications of automation on the labor market.

The Incident that Sparked Outrage

On February 2, 2026, a statement from Peter Finn and Victor Mineros, Co-Chairs of Teamsters California, highlighted the troubling investigation launched by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding the robotaxi incident. They expressed that this incident serves as a clear indication that California policymakers can no longer ignore the accumulating safety concerns regarding robotic taxis. The devastating reality is that this incident underscores the broader risk posed by Big Tech's push for automation, often at the expense of jobs and community safety.

Concerns Over Autonomy and Job Security

The Teamsters' statement emphasizes that the rise of automation threatens to displace skilled human labor, compelling millions into economic uncertainty. They argue that companies like Waymo intend to exploit technology to seize financial resources from workers, leading to dire consequences for families and local economies. The Co-Chairs flagged that robotaxis not only jeopardize jobs but also endanger the safety of children and other vulnerable community members.

Continuing Violations of Safety Protocols

In their appeal, Teamsters California pointed out that Waymo vehicles have been reported to consistently violate school bus stop signs, even after a software recall specifically aimed at rectifying these failures. The fact that these incidents persist despite previous warnings from concerned parents, educators, and community members raises grave concerns. The community's unified voice is clear: these potentially dangerous vehicles must not operate near school zones.

Call to Action by Teamsters California

In light of these issues, Teamsters California urges immediate action from the CPUC to prioritize community safety and the welfare of working-class families. They declared that no parent should have to live in fear of a driverless vehicle endangering their child. Their call to suspend Waymo's operating license is framed not only as a request but as a necessary action to ensure accountability and protection for communities vulnerable to the creeping threat of automation mishaps.

Conclusion: A Fight for Safety and Jobs

The situation surrounding Waymo highlights a critical inflection point in the ongoing discussion about the integration of autonomous technology into everyday life. Teamsters California’s proactive stance reflects a larger narrative about labor rights, economic security, and public safety. As we press forward into an increasingly automated future, the need for vigilance and advocacy for worker and community protection becomes paramount. The upcoming decisions by regulatory bodies like the CPUC will have lasting implications for the balance of innovation and safety in our communities.

For more information about the Teamsters’ stance, visit teamstersca.org.