Councilmember proposes legislation to bring self-driving cars to DC WASHINGTON (7News) — A small but growing number of companies are testing autonomous vehicles, like robotaxis, in Washington, D.C. Under current D.C. law, an operator is still required to be behind the wheel. Because of that requirement, companies testing autonomous vehicles in the District remain in the testing stage rather than offering fully autonomous rides to the public. Councilmember Charles Allen announced legislation to allow the commercial deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) offering rideshare services in the city. RELATED | Self-driving cars being tested in DC | What this means for the future of jobs, transit The "Autonomous Vehicle Deployment Authorization Amendment Act of 2026": - Requires AV rideshare services provide equal coverage to every neighborhood, including similar wait times, whether you live in Shaw or Congress Heights; - Clarifies legal liability for crashes and malfunctions to protect DC residents; - Requires operators to collaborate with WMATA on potential discounts when AVs connect directly to public transit; - Ensures first responders receive guidance from AV operators on how to safely respond to crashes involving an AV; - Ensures operators have redundancy plans in the event of a regional power loss; and - Establishes robust data reporting requirements so the District can evaluate impacts on traffic, safety, and rideshare industry employment. The bill charges AV rideshare companies a “vehicle miles traveled” (VMT) fee per vehicle and splits the revenue between new funding for WMATA and workforce development and support for current rideshare workers. The bill also proposes a discount on rides to and from a Metro station. “This legislation creates a path to deliver autonomous - or driverless - vehicles as a rideshare option in the District of Columbia,” said Allen. “People want AVs as an option to get around, and I