NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, the Transportation Committee convened to hear a presentation regarding national trends in autonomous vehicle regulation, the legal landscape surrounding AVs, Waymo testing in New Orleans, and more. Additionally, the committee heard updates from the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) regarding structural changes and voted on Ordinance No. 35,471.
Updates Surrounding Autonomous Vehicles
The committee received a presentation from the Executive Counsel, which provided an overview of autonomous for-hire vehicles, including Waymo, Tesla Robotaxi, and Zoox. The presentation discussed how New Orleans may regulate their future operation.
Federal regulations define levels of automation that determine where specific types of automated vehicles fall. Autonomous for-hire vehicles operate at Level 4 automation, meaning they can drive without a human driver within designated geographic areas. Federal regulations currently require manufacturers to test, comply with, and certify that their vehicles are free of safety risks under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
The presentation noted that Louisiana currently regulates only commercial autonomous vehicles, while New Orleans' existing transportation regulations are built around human drivers, creating regulatory gaps for driverless services. Examples from California and Texas show common regulatory approaches, including permitting requirements, first responder interaction plans, complaint systems, liability insurance requirements, and emergency response protocols.
Waymo is currently testing approximately 12 vehicles in New Orleans with safety drivers behind the wheel and plans to begin autonomous testing later in 2026. Commercial ride-hailing service would not begin until testing is complete.
Goals for city legislation on autonomous for-hire vehicles include ensuring that adequate safety controls are in place to protect passengers and other citizens using the public right-of-way. It also includes clear rules for passenger treatment and legal guardrails regarding liability to other cars, cyclists, pedestrians, and pets. Additionally, achieving fee parity across all types of for-hire vehicles is a priority.
The proposed timeline includes stakeholder discussions and ordinance development through 2026, with autonomous testing continuing and licensed autonomous ride services potentially available in 2027.
To view the full presentation, click here.
Committee Votes on Ordinance No. 35,471
The committee voted to recommend approval of Ordinance No. 35,471, which would amend Section 162-745 of the Code of the City of New Orleans to authorize a temporary additional $1.00 gasoline surcharge for each completed taxicab and DFT trip through December 31, 2027. This amendment would allow the city to monitor economic conditions, such as the ongoing rise in gas prices affecting the United States.
Ordinance No. 35,471 will appear on the Consent Agenda for the Regular Meeting on June 18, 2026.
Updates from the Regional Transit Authority
RTA representatives spoke before the committee to provide updates on structural changes and related matters. They assured the committee that they would keep them informed throughout the ongoing audit process, leadership search, and operational review as they move forward.
To view the portion of the meeting regarding RTA, click here.