Portland, London weigh robotaxi controls

Portland officials are considering proposed rules for future robotaxi services, including limits on fleet size and expansion, extensive local testing, safety and emergency-response plans, data sharing, and a fee to support drivers affected by automation. Rideshare advocates warn that driverless services threaten workers’ livelihoods and raise safety concerns, and are calling for human safety operators or a ban. In London, the Assembly’s Transport Committee recommends giving Transport for London stronger authority over autonomous passenger services when full regulations take effect in 2027, including powers to issue or revoke permits, set fleet caps and operating conditions, and seek permit suspensions during the pilot phase. The committee also proposes tighter safety and accountability requirements, such as prompt reporting of crashes and near misses, scrutiny of empty-vehicle travel, and accessibility safeguards; it says TfL should withhold consent when services fail to meet safety or transport goals. The proposals are recommendations, not rules currently in force, and London’s drivers’ union supports stronger oversight and protections for workers during the transition.