Teamsters Advocate for Quality Jobs and Road Safety Amidst Autonomous Vehicle Issues

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 13, 2024 — Responding to General Motors’ decision to cease funding for Cruise autonomous vehicle development, Peter Finn, Teamsters Western Region International Vice President and President of Teamsters Joint Council 7, issued the following statement:

“GM’s funding cut for Cruise reflects the public’s understanding that robotaxis are unsafe, as evidenced by incidents involving pedestrian injuries, obstruction of emergency responders, near-misses with children, and traffic congestion.”

“Autonomous vehicles from companies like Waymo and Zoox continue to jeopardize pedestrian safety across California and other states. These companies not only threaten public safety but also the livelihoods of millions of working Americans. GM’s action highlights the need for agencies such as the California Public Utilities Commission, the California Department of Motor Vehicles, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to strengthen AV regulations and enforcement to protect both our roads and the American middle class.”

“The Teamsters will continue to push for accountability from transportation regulators and tech companies to ensure road safety and job security.”

Teamsters Joint Council 7 represents 100,000 members in 18 local unions across Northern California, the Central Valley, Northern Nevada.

Contact:
Matt McQuaid (202) 624-6877 

SOURCE Teamsters Joint Council 7