AMERICA DRIVES Act
Sponsored By: Representative Rep. Fong, Vince [R-CA-20]
In Committee
Summary
Would let Level 4 and Level 5 automated driving systems operate commercial trucks in interstate commerce without a human on board by creating a federal operating framework and preempting conflicting state rules. It would align federal definitions with SAE J3016 and direct the Department of Transportation to write implementing regulations and clarify when human-driver rules do not apply.
Show full summary
- Motor carriers and fleets: Would be allowed to operate ADS-equipped commercial motor vehicles across state lines without an onboard or remote human driver. The bill would push DOT to reduce regulatory obstacles and require parity and flexibility so carriers are not subject to extra burdens.
- State and local governments: Would face federal preemption for laws that require a human occupant in ADS-equipped commercial motor vehicles. That would limit state rules that would otherwise block driverless CMV operations.
- Drivers, remote operators, and safety rules: Would define "remote driver" and "remote assistance" and clarify the role and input limits for remotely located human operators. It would also direct DOT to update rules that apply to human drivers when an ADS is engaged and allow cab-mounted warning beacons under FMCSA exemption processes.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Rules for driverless commercial trucks
If passed, this would let Level 4 and Level 5 automated trucks run in interstate commerce with no person on board or remote driver. USDOT would need to update safety and driver rules by September 30, 2027. Rules that only fit human drivers (like hours of service, drug testing, ELDs, CDL, and medical checks) would not apply when the system is driving and no human is inside. The bill would set clear definitions for automation levels and remote roles, and limit rules that unfairly block these trucks. It would also preempt state rules that require a human in the cab.
Cab warning beacons allowed for trucks
If enacted, carriers could use cab-mounted warning beacons as an approved warning device. FMCSA rules at 49 CFR 392.22 and 393.95(f) would be applied to allow these beacons, consistent with a March 3, 2023 exemption notice. This could cut retrofit costs and reduce hassle for small fleets.
Automated driving gear not counted in width
If enacted, automated driving equipment would not count toward a truck’s legal width. Truck makers and fleets could add sensors and hardware without going over the width limit. This mainly helps companies that install automated driving gear.
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Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Rep. Fong, Vince [R-CA-20]
CA • R
Cosponsors
Obernolte
CA • R
Sponsored 9/16/2025
Rep. Kiley, Kevin [I-CA-3]
CA • I
Sponsored 12/15/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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