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Committee Advances Bilirakis Self-Driving Car Legislation

July 27, 2017

Washington, D.C. – The House Committee on Energy and Commerce today unanimously advanced legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) to help ensure self-driving cars are developed with seniors and those with disabilities in mind. Bilirakis' legislation, the Addressing Community Challenges from Emerging Self-Driving Systems (ACCESS) Act, requires the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish an advisory council on developing autonomous vehicle technology to specifically meet the needs of seniors and disabled individuals.

"Simple things most of us take for granted, such as getting to work, going to the doctor, a trip to the grocery store, or across town to visit family, can be difficult undertakings for some. Self-driving cars could put seniors and those with disabilities back in the driver's seat of their lives, providing them with greater independence and mobility. I'm pleased we made progress today on my bill, the ACCESS Act, to help communities unlock the full potential of autonomous vehicle technology," said Bilirakis.

Please click here to read the full bill text of the ACCESS Act. The bill will next be considered by the House of Representatives.

Issues:Seniors