Tesla is rallying its owners in New Jersey, warning that proposed legislation could make it difficult, or even impossible, for the company’s robotaxis to operate in the state.
In an email sent to customers and posted to the Tesla Engage website, the company urged owners to contact state lawmakers regarding Senate Bill S. 1677 and Assembly Bill A. 3968, arguing that the legislation would create an autonomous vehicle pilot program with restrictions that effectively prevent true driverless deployment.
“Proposed legislation moving through Trenton right now would impose restrictions so severe that true driverless deployment would remain illegal,” Tesla wrote. “Your voice is critical to ensure New Jersey remains at the forefront of transportation innovation.”
According to Tesla, the bills would establish New Jersey’s first autonomous vehicle framework, but the company claims the rules are written in a way that would prevent its autonomous driving technology from legally operating in the state.
Tesla is urging lawmakers to revise the legislation and adopt what it describes as a technology-neutral approach that allows all qualified autonomous vehicle companies to participate.
Tesla highlights safety and mobility benefits
In its message to owners, Tesla focused on several arguments for broader autonomous vehicle adoption, including road safety, transportation access, and economic growth.
The company pointed to traffic safety statistics, noting that 578 people were killed in traffic incidents in New Jersey last year. Tesla argued that because human error contributes to the vast majority of serious crashes, autonomous vehicles have the potential to reduce collisions caused by distraction, impairment, and fatigue.
Tesla also highlighted the potential benefits for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents in areas with limited public transportation options, arguing that autonomous vehicles could provide greater independence and improved mobility.
The automaker further warned that restrictive regulations could discourage investment in New Jersey, pushing autonomous vehicle companies, jobs, and future economic opportunities to states with more welcoming policies.
Whether New Jersey lawmakers modify the legislation remains to be seen, but Tesla is clearly hoping its owners can help influence the outcome before the bills advance further through the legislative process.
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