Minneapolis Council Votes 7-6 to Require Human Operators in Robotaxis; Mayor Signals Veto
Minneapolis is a city in Hennepin County, Minnesota. The Minneapolis City Council voted 7-6 on October 1, 2026 to approve an ordinance that would require autonomous vehicles — including Waymo robotaxis — to carry a licensed human safety monitor with immediate access to steering, braking and acceleration, paid at least the minimum wage, under a city-issued license. If it takes effect, Minneapolis would become the first U.S. city to require a person in the driver's seat of a driverless vehicle.
The debate drew national attention after Council Member Jason Chavez claimed in the hearing that autonomous vehicles have killed pet cats, remarks that were widely mocked online. Supporters of the ordinance cite safety concerns and the threat to rideshare jobs. Mayor Jacob Frey, however, announced he plans to veto the measure, saying it amounts to a "backdoor ban," and that the city will continue embracing innovative transportation technology.
Sources: FOX 9; New York Post.
Source: FOX 9
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: Ibboh, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
