Debate over the role of autonomous vehicle in the US transportation system continues to intensify, with labour groups in Illinois mounting opposition to proposed legislation that would expand AV deployment in the state.
The Illinois Teamsters and the Labor Alliance for Public Transportation (LAPT) have joined forces to challenge the Autonomous Vehicle Pilot Project Act (IL SB3392/HB5103) that would allow broader testing and potential commercial deployment of AVs within the next three years.
The Illinois Teamsters said in a statement, “The legislation would harm middle-class jobs and jeopardize motorist safety by allowing driverless car and truck companies like Waymo to unleash untested and dangerous products on Illinois roads within the next three years.”
These concerns come amid ongoing federal scrutiny. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened investigations into automated driving incidents in recent years, including a case involving a Waymo vehicle in Santa Monica.
Regulation of autonomous vehicles in the USA remains fragmented, with primary authority resting at the state level. Illinois’ proposed legislation reflects a broader national trend in which states are independently shaping AV policy frameworks, while federal agencies such as NHTSA provide oversight on vehicle safety standards.
Labor representatives have framed the issue around employment impacts as well as safety. “Autonomous vehicles are bad for workers and communities,” said Tom Stiede, president of Teamsters Joint Council 25. Industry stakeholders, however, argue that AV deployment could improve road safety, increase logistics efficiency and address driver shortages.
Meanwhile, policymakers are grappling with how to manage the transition. In April 2026, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) published a report outlining key considerations for AV integration. These include the need for coordinated governance, robust safety oversight, transparent data-sharing practices and proactive planning for workforce and infrastructure impacts.
“AV technology is evolving rapidly and jurisdictions nationwide are figuring out how to prepare for its impacts, including potential displacement of workers and loss of revenue,” said DDOT director Sharon Kershbaum. Polling in Illinois suggests strong opposition to fully driverless cars and trucks operating on public roads, highlighting the political challenges facing lawmakers.
Illinois is not alone in reassessing its approach. According to LAPT, several states, including Minnesota, New York, Virginia and Washington and Washington DC, have recently delayed or reconsidered plans to expand AV legislation, reflecting a cautious national approach as the technology continues to mature.
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