Teamsters Urge Colorado Governor to Act on Groundbreaking Autonomous Vehicle Legislation

In a significant turn of events for labor rights and public safety, the Teamsters have made a strong appeal for Colorado Governor Jared Polis to quickly sign into law the recently passed HB 25-1122. This legislation, which has successfully made its way through the Colorado State Senate, seeks to enforce stringent regulations on the operation of autonomous vehicles (AVs) in commercial settings. The core requirement of this law is that a trained and licensed human safety operator must be present in any autonomous vehicle during its operation.

A Call to Action

Spencer Hogue, President of Teamsters Joint Council 3, has publicly stated the importance of this legislation, highlighting Governor Polis's opportunity to lead by example. “Gov. Polis has the opportunity to show Coloradans that he's willing to take their side in the fight against Silicon Valley billionaires who want to automate their jobs and make our roads more dangerous,” he said. Hogue emphasizes that this legislation represents a proactive step to protect workers and the public from the potential hazards posed by automated driving technologies.

This call to action is more than just about a single piece of legislation; it encompasses broader concerns regarding job security and public safety. Dean Modecker, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 455, reinforced this point, indicating that the dangers of driverless vehicles extend far beyond Colorado's borders. “This is not a hard choice — either support Big Tech or support the will of the people. The Governor knows what the right thing to do is,” Modecker asserted.

The Wider Implications

The implications of HB 25-1122 resonate not only within Colorado but also set a precedent for other states. The Teamsters are advocating for similar legislation in multiple states, including California, Delaware, Nevada, Oregon, and Texas. Their campaign underscores a growing awareness and concern about the rapid advent of advanced technologies in everyday life, particularly regarding how these developments impact employment and safety.

Historically, unions like the Teamsters have played crucial roles in advocating for worker rights in the face of technological advancements. The push against the unchecked adoption of AVs finds roots in these longstanding efforts to protect jobs and ensure that automation does not come at the expense of human oversight.

A Rising Movement

As the debate over autonomous vehicles grows, the demand for regulations like HB 25-1122 signifies a powerful movement among labor organizations. In the face of overwhelming lobbying from major technology firms aiming to hasten the deployment of driverless vehicles, labor groups advocate for a balanced approach that safeguards workers and the community.

As this movement gains momentum throughout the country, it suggests that communities are ready to hold accountable those who prioritize profit over public safety and workers’ rights.

By urgently calling on Governor Polis to sign HB 25-1122, the Teamsters are effectively framing this legislation as a crucial battle in the ongoing war between labor and technology. The outcome in Colorado may very well inform how other states approach the hot-button issues surrounding the implementation of autonomous vehicles.

Conclusion

The passage of HB 25-1122 is a pivotal step in the ongoing conversation about the future of work in an era of rapid technological change. As states continue to grapple with the integration of autonomous vehicles into their transportation systems, the Teamsters' advocacy serves as a reminder that the interests of workers and the safety of the public should remain at the forefront of any discussions regarding technological innovation.

For those interested in labor rights, public safety, or the evolving landscape of transportation technology, this is a pivotal moment that will likely impact legislative efforts for years to come. The Teamsters are committed to ensuring that any advancements in technology do not come at the cost of human jobs and public safety, and their fight is just beginning.