Waymo and robotaxi operators face new federal scrutiny over emergency response failures
Original: Waymo, robotaxi operators face fresh scrutiny over emergency response failures
Why This Matters
Proposed federal AV emergency standards could reshape operational rules for the entire autonomous vehicle industry.
Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.) introduced the AV Emergency Response Coordination Act, which would require AV operators to provide emergency protocols, establish a 24-hour hotline, and direct NHTSA to set minimum national standards. The bill was unveiled July 28 at a San Francisco press conference joined by SF Mayor Daniel Lurie and Fire Chief Dean Crispen.
Waymo and other autonomous vehicle operators are facing increased regulatory pressure after multiple incidents in which robotaxis blocked ambulances and fire trucks, drove into active crime scenes, or failed to recognize safety signals like traffic cones and flares. Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.) unveiled the AV Emergency Response Coordination Act on July 28 at a San Francisco press conference, joined by SF Mayor Daniel Lurie, Fire Chief Dean Crispen, and Cathy Chase of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.
The proposed legislation would require AV companies to provide clear emergency protocols, maintain a 24-hour hotline for public officials, and direct NHTSA to develop minimum national emergency response standards. A key provision would allow public officials to 'geofence' AVs—restricting where they can operate during emergencies in real time rather than relying on self-regulation. SF Fire Chief Crispen noted that robotaxis are obstructing fire stations and ambulance facilities by picking up and dropping off passengers directly in front of them. A TechCrunch investigation earlier in 2026 also found incidents in which Waymo relied on first responders to manually move its vehicles. Waymo stated it has 'long supported' a federal framework for AV standards and supports efforts to standardize engagement with first responders.