San Diego council demands state oversight of Waymo robotaxi fleet
The San Diego city council voted unanimously to require state control over Waymo’s driverless ride-hailing service after it began operating on September 1.
On Monday, the San Diego city council approved a resolution calling for state-level control of Waymo’s robotaxi fleet, which launched in the city on September 1. Councilmembers voiced concerns that driverless cars could block first responders and jeopardize airport taxi livelihoods, citing video clips of vehicles obstructing traffic and emergency scenes. The measure requests that Sacramento grant the city direct oversight and authorizes police and fire agencies to stop or relocate empty vehicles during crises, as well as prohibiting service at San Diego Airport.
Waymo’s state and local policy manager highlighted a 2025 CPUC review, citing thousands of safe trips and a 94% reduction in serious-injury crashes, and noted training of nearly 300 local responders. The CPUC had recently approved Waymo’s expansion into San Diego, Sacramento, Los Angeles and the Bay Area, framing it as a gradual rollout guided by a safety framework. The council’s action reflects a push for local input on emerging autonomous-vehicle technology.
Why it matters
Local control over autonomous vehicles affects public safety, jobs and how new technology is integrated into city streets.
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