"California Governor Newsom's Vetoes: Robotrucks, Gender Identity, and Progressive Bills"

California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill that aimed to ban heavy-duty driverless trucks from operating in the state. The bill required a trained human driver to be present in autonomous vehicles weighing over 10,001 pounds. Newsom stated that the existing regulatory framework is sufficient and that the bill is not needed at this time. While some states have allowed the testing and operation of self-driving trucks, California currently prohibits autonomous trucks weighing over 10,001 pounds. The Department of Motor Vehicles is working on developing a regulatory framework to lift this restriction. Supporters of the technology argue that the bill would hinder progress in achieving autonomous hauling of goods, while labor unions express concerns about safety and job losses. Newsom emphasized the need for transparent regulations and directed the labor and workforce development agency to develop recommendations to mitigate potential job impacts.