California lawmakers have introduced a controversial bill that could make your car beep at you for speeding.
At a Glance
- California lawmakers propose requiring new cars to issue audible speed warnings.
- The bill, introduced by Senator Scott Wiener, shifted from active to passive speed assistance.
- The bill awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision by month’s end.
- National Transportation Safety Board supports it; critics raise concerns of distraction and cost.
California’s Proposed Bill for Speed Limit Warnings
The California legislature has proposed a bill that mandates all new vehicles sold in the state after 2030 to come equipped with a system issuing auditory alerts when drivers exceed speed limits. This bill, driven by safety concerns and introduced by state senator Scott Wiener, aims to curb speed-related accidents through instant notifications, urging drivers to adhere to speed regulations.
Initially, the bill suggested active speed-assistance technology that would physically prevent cars from exceeding speed limits. However, after facing substantial pushback, the proposal was modified to incorporate passive speed assistance. Under this system, vehicles will only produce a brief audible and visual alert when the speed exceeds the limit by more than 10 miles per hour, without actively restricting the car’s speed.
The bill, which mandates a "a brief, one-time" warning when exceeding speed limits, has passed the State Senate and Assembly and now heads to Governor Newsom's desk. https://t.co/QZXyf6GnfO
— The Drive (@thedrive) September 3, 2024
Support and Opposition
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) strongly supports the bill, highlighting that such technology could significantly reduce speeding-related crashes, saving lives, and preventing injuries. The NTSB praised the bill, saying, “Broad deployment of intelligent speed assistance would reduce the frequency of speeding and speeding-related crashes… saving lives and preventing injuries.”
While many safety advocates appreciate the bill, critics argue that the technology isn’t foolproof and could lead to false positives, potentially distracting drivers. Opponents also point to infrastructure problems in the U.S. that might hinder the reliable functioning of such systems. “Anyone who has driven a car with a traffic sign recognition system will know that it can present incorrect information on speed limits,” notes a critic.
Big brother? California bill to require speed limit alarms in cars heads to governor https://t.co/33WDL2bAvo
— Just the News (@JustTheNews) September 5, 2024
Legislative Progress and Awaiting Approval
Senator Wiener explains the urgency of the bill, arguing that California can’t wait for federal action much like in the case of early seatbelt laws. Governor Gavin Newsom now has until the end of the month to make a decision about signing the bill into law. Should it pass, this legislation would then require vehicle manufacturers to integrate these alerts into all new cars sold in California starting from the 2030 model year.
“The rise in road deaths in California is a completely preventable tragedy,” Wiener said. “The evidence is clear: Rising levels of dangerous speeding are placing all Californians in danger, and by taking prudent steps to improve safety, we can save lives.”
However, concerns over future implications of the technology persist. Some worry that the warning system could eventually evolve into more restrictive measures like limiting vehicle speeds or sharing information with authorities and insurance companies. The auto industry and Republican lawmakers oppose the bill, arguing it could raise costs, infringe on personal freedom, and conflict with federal regulations.
