Letter of Support: Fully Autonomous Vehicle Legislation (SB670) in Virginia
About this Letter of Support:
In its letter of support for SB670, the Greater Washington Board of Trade urges Virginia lawmakers to advance a clear regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles. The Board argues that the bill will help position Virginia as a leader in next-generation mobility by supporting innovation, economic growth, public safety, and long-term regional competitiveness.
Submitted Letter of Support:
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March 2, 2026
Dear Chair Delaney and Vice Chair Reid:
I write to express our support for SB 670 as it comes before the House Transportation Subcommittee on Innovation.
Autonomous vehicle technology is no longer experimental. It is already operating in major U.S. markets, including Phoenix, San Francisco, Austin, and Las Vegas, under structured regulatory frameworks. States that provide clear, predictable rules are attracting investment, research partnerships, and high-skilled jobs in advanced mobility. Those that hesitate are watching that innovation and capital flow elsewhere.
Virginia is well positioned to lead. The Commonwealth’s strengths in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, logistics, and advanced research make it a natural hub for
next-generation transportation systems. What is needed is regulatory clarity. SB 670 provides that framework while maintaining appropriate oversight and public safety.
Concerns about safety and workforce impacts deserve serious consideration, but they are best addressed through thoughtful policy, not delay. Properly regulated autonomous systems have the potential to improve safety, enhance traffic flow, and increase efficiency. AV deployment will also create new opportunities in fleet operations, software engineering, systems maintenance, and infrastructure modernization. The question isnot whether this technology will advance, but where the economic benefits will accrue.
As our region works to diversify beyond federal reliance and build a stronger digital-era economy, transportation innovation is directly tied to competitiveness. SB 670 signals that Virginia intends to shape the future of mobility rather than react to it.
We appreciate your leadership and thoughtful consideration of this measure and stand ready to serve as a resource as it moves forward.
Respectfully,
Jack McDougle
President & CEO
Greater Washington Board of Trade
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