Self-driving cars may still be several years away, but federal officials are already looking to restrict the ability of drivers to operate their cars to improve road safety. They're pushing for the adoption of new technologies to reduce human error.
"Auto safety regulators are pushing for new equipment to protect motorists from their biggest threat: themselves," writes Jerry Hirsch. "They're aiming to keep drunk drivers off the road with the help of onboard technology that immobilizes their cars. New vehicles may soon come with systems to help prevent collisions. And engines may not start unless occupants buckle their seat belts."
But a similar initiative - a seat-belt monitoring system mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the mid 1970s - was rolled back in response to public backlash. And Jeremy Anwyl, an automotive industry consultant and former chief executive of Edmunds.com, "suspects renewed efforts by government to keep tabs on driving behavior will elicit a similar outcry."
"People won't like the idea that all of a sudden they are no longer completely in control," he said. "They might not buy a new vehicle and instead just keep the car they have."
FULL STORY: Auto safety initiative seeks to reduce driver errors

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

California Invests Additional $5M in Electric School Buses
The state wants to electrify all of its school bus fleets by 2035.

Austin Launches $2M Homelessness Prevention Fund
A new grant program from the city’s Homeless Strategy Office will fund rental assistance and supportive services.

Alabama School Forestry Initiative Brings Trees to Schoolyards
Trees can improve physical and mental health for students and commnity members.
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