Texas Lawmakers Urge Tesla to Delay Robotaxi Launch Ahead of New AV Regulations

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) is facing pressure from Texas Democratic lawmakers to delay its robotaxi rollout in Austin until new autonomous vehicle regulations take effect on September 1, 2025.

What's Happening

Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced plans to launch a limited robotaxi service—starting with 10 vehicles—by June 22 in select areas of Austin. However, in a formal letter addressed to Tesla's Director of Field Quality, a group of seven Democratic legislators urged the company to wait until the newly passed autonomous driving law is implemented.

The letter emphasized:

• Stronger safety provisions coming in the new law

• A need for greater public trust before fully autonomous operations begin

• A request for Tesla to publicly outline its compliance plans if it proceeds in June

Legal Landscape

While the new rules are not yet in force, Texas' current legislation allows autonomous vehicles to operate as long as they meet basic insurance and registration requirements. The request may carry limited legislative weight since Republicans currently control the Texas legislature.

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