Federal Autonomous Truck Bill Sparks Small Carrier Pushback Over Safety Concerns

Key Details Congress is moving forward with H.R. 7390, the SELF DRIVE Act of 2026, which would create the first federal framework for deploying fully autonomous heavy-duty trucks on public roads. The bill, introduced by Rep. Bob Latta of Ohio in February, aims to establish unified federal standards and end the regulatory patchwork that has kept autonomous trucking in testing limbo. It would allow manufacturers to conduct limited commercial freight operations under testing permits and direct the Department of Transportation to develop new safety standards. Why It Matters The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has formally objected to the bill, raising red flags that go far beyond job loss concerns. Their March 9 letter to Congress highlights serious issues around safety standards, cybersecurity, regulatory transparency, and potential unfair advantages for large manufacturers over small carriers. OOIDA argues the bill repeats patterns from previous federal rulemakings that hurt independent truckers. What's Next This is the third attempt to pass autonomous trucking legislation. Previous versions in 2017 and 2021 deliberately excluded heavy trucks to avoid labor friction. The inclusion of 80,000-pound trucks in this version represents a major shift in the debate. Small carriers should monitor this bill's progress closely as it moves through the House Energy and Commerce Committee.