Maverick Cox
California’s Middle-Class Jobs on the Line as Lawmakers Face Showdown Over Autonomous Vehicle Bill: What Happens Next?
The Teamsters urge action as California Senate weighs AB33, a bill safeguarding middle-class jobs by requiring human drivers in autonomous delivery vehicles.
- 1.3M+ Teamsters represented in North America
- 100+ driverless car or truck safety incidents reported in the past year
- 3 major AV recalls in past 30 days
- 1 bill could alter the future for thousands of California drivers
California’s battle over the future of work reached a fever pitch this week, as the influential Teamsters union pushed state senators to fast-track Assembly Bill 33 (AB33)—a controversial proposal to require a trained human operator in every autonomous vehicle (AV) that delivers goods to homes and businesses.
The stakes? Nothing less than the livelihoods of thousands of middle-class workers. And the tech industry’s push for a driverless future just hit another speed bump.
Driverless Tech Faces Fresh Scrutiny After Latest Setbacks
California’s ambition to lead in autonomous vehicle technology has been marred by safety scares and public outcry. In the last month alone, major players Waymo and Zoox issued high-profile recalls after AI-driven vehicles were involved in safety incidents. Aurora Innovation, a prominent driverless truck firm, quickly reversed course and put trained operators back in cabs after only three weeks of fully automated testing.
Industry insiders and labor leaders see these incidents as proof: AV technology is moving too fast for the roads, risking lives and jobs. Human operators, they argue, are essential to keeping the roads safe and retaining the quality of middle-class employment.
What’s at Stake for California’s Workforce?
The bill’s authors say AB33 is a bipartisan effort to balance innovation with responsibility. Without it, the Teamsters warn, California could become ground zero for widespread job losses as “Big Tech billionaires” aggressively automate union-represented delivery jobs. With companies like Waymo and Zoox eager to scale autonomous vehicle fleets, the ripple effects could impact millions of working families far beyond the Golden State.
Want to know more about AV regulations? Visit Caltrans and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the latest.
Q: Why Are Teamsters Sounding the Alarm Over AVs?
Teamsters leaders point to safety failures and tech glitches as evidence that driverless delivery isn’t ready for prime time. Not only do AVs threaten driver livelihoods, but their repeated malfunctions have cost companies millions and shaken public confidence.
Teamsters argue that the bill protects both workers and the general public by requiring a trained professional behind the wheel when AVs are on delivery routes.
Q: How Does AB33 Change California’s Roads?
If passed, AB33 would make it illegal for companies to operate autonomous delivery vehicles without a specially trained human operator present in the vehicle at all times. The law would empower regulatory agencies to fine violators and suspend AV testing after safety incidents.
The bill enjoys bipartisan support, reflecting growing concern across party lines about preserving well-paying union jobs amid rampant automation.
How Can Californians Take Action?
Concerned citizens can contact their state senators, request a hearing, or join rallies in Sacramento. The Teamsters urge all supporters of middle-class jobs to follow bill progress and make their voices heard through social media campaigns, phone calls, and emails.
For more, stay updated with Teamsters and follow their latest news on Twitter and Facebook.
Protect California’s Workers—Take a Stand Today!
- Monitor AB33’s progress in the California Senate
- Contact your legislator to express support for trained human drivers
- Attend town halls or rallies on AV legislation
- Share information on social media to raise awareness
The future of work is being decided right now—make sure your voice counts.
