New York tees up autonomous vehicle expansion as Texas races ahead
As federal autonomous vehicle guidelines remain a work in progress, some states continue to advance programs supporting deployment and/or development.
Texas has been central to much of the autonomous expansion, while DOTs in other states have explored platooning, and universities have been awarded grants to research and test autonomous vehicles.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul recently announced plans to introduce legislation to advance New York’s autonomous vehicle pilot program.
This proposal would allow limited deployment of commercial for-hire autonomous passenger vehicles outside New York City. Interested companies would be required to submit applications that demonstrate local support for deployment and adherence to safety standards.
Gov. Hochul’s office said this initiative builds on years of successful testing and demonstrations and reflects growing evidence that autonomous vehicles can improve road safety and transportation options when introduced thoughtfully.
The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association called the New York proposal a step forward for the future of transportation.
“New York has long been a global leader in finance, media, and innovation,”said Jeff Farrah, CEO of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association. “The Empire State can lead in transportation as well by putting in place a policy framework for autonomous vehicles. We look forward to working with lawmakers and regulators in Albany to bring safe, driverless vehicles to New York’s roads, unlocking job growth, improving logistics and delivering access to mobility in every community.”
Waymo expressed its support of New York’s AV program. According to its website, the Mountain View, Calif.-based AV company served over 14 million trips in 2025 alone.
“Gov. Hochul’s proposal to legalize fully autonomous vehicles is a transformative moment for New York’s transportation system,” Justin Kintz, Waymo’s Global Head of Public Policy, said on the company’s X page.
However, it must be noted that most Americans remain leery of AVs. More than 60% of Americans surveyed by AAA indicated that they are afraid of self-driving vehicles. Only 13% of Americans say they trust driverless vehicles. LL
We’re grateful for @GovKathyHochul’s leadership on fully autonomous vehicles in New York state. We’re ready to work with leaders around New York to bring our service and new infrastructure, career opportunities, and investment to the Empire State.
If you want to advocate for… pic.twitter.com/Cwr5Kp6hXL
— Waymo (@Waymo) January 13, 2026