#USA #Boston #Autonomous Vehicles #Waymo #Teamsters Local 25

Boston Teamsters Push for Regulation on Autonomous Vehicles

In a significant move reflecting growing concerns about the impact of autonomous vehicles on public safety and the local economy, the Teamsters Local 25 joined forces with a coalition of unions and elected officials in Boston's Government Center. The teams are rallying to demand effective regulations for Waymo and other autonomous vehicle (AV) companies before they are permitted to operate within the city.

During a public hearing and rally outside of City Hall, the coalition passionately advocated for the passage of an ordinance, spearheaded by Boston City Councilors Henry Santana and Erin Murphy. This proposed ordinance aims to examine the potential economic implications, traffic flow alterations, and public safety issues associated with the introduction of AVs in Boston. A key feature of this initiative is the establishment of an advisory board comprised of trade unionists and other stakeholders, tasked with evaluating the findings of this study to inform future rules governing AV operators in the area.

Tom Mari, the President of Teamsters Local 25, voiced the coalition's frustrations with major tech firms like Waymo, stressing their focus appears to be financial profit over public welfare. "The Big Tech companies putting driverless cars and trucks on our roads like to describe themselves as visionaries, but really, they’re just prioritizing profits by intending to replace workers," he asserted.

Waymo is currently busy mapping the streets of Boston and is actively lobbying for legislation in the Massachusetts State House that would allow them to escalate their operations in the Commonwealth. This push comes amidst ongoing federal investigations into the company, multiple safety recalls, and a series of accidents involving their vehicles nationwide.

Reviewing the current scenario, Arthur Gufling, a paratransit driver for the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center and a Local 25 member, expressed his concern, saying, "This isn't just about my job; it's about public safety for everyone." He highlighted the unique challenges of driving in Boston—narrow streets, dense traffic, and harsh winter weather conditions that require instincts and common sense, elements he believes cannot be replicated by machines.

The push for regulation takes a significant step in addressing the concerns of residents and workers alike and emphasizes the necessity of integrating human oversight in the deployment of innovative technologies like AVs. The Teamsters Local 25, which represents over 13,000 members in and around Boston, aims to ensure that any shift toward automation does not overlook the community's needs and safety.

For further information about the Teamsters Local 25's initiatives and efforts, you can explore their website at teamsterslocal25.com.

Contact information: Matt McQuaid, (617) 894-0669, [email protected]