Autonomous cars in Iowa would need human drivers under proposed bills

By: Cami Koons

Outlets: Iowa Capital Dispatch

Published: February 16, 2026

Words: 846

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

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Iowa lawmakers advanced two bills from House subcommittees Monday that would restrict the commercial operation of self-driving vehicles and assign liability to the owners of autonomous vehicles.

The bills were opposed by automotive industry representatives who argued the legislation would prohibit situations like an automated car transporting passengers in places like an airport. Labor unions and trial lawyers supported the bills, arguing the language would protect Iowans from the new technology.

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