H.R.3649 - Magnus White Cyclist Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3649, the Magnus White Cyclist Safety Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue a final rule establishing minimum performance standards for automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in new covered vehicles. These standards must ensure the AEB systems function in various lighting conditions and effectively detect and respond to vulnerable road users, including bicyclists and motorcyclists. The compliance date for the final rule is set no later than two motor vehicle model years after the rule's issuance.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to reduce accidents and fatalities involving vulnerable road users by improving the effectiveness of AEB systems. This will likely lead to increased safety standards for vehicles and potentially influence the design and implementation of AEB technology. The bill could also spur innovation in sensor technology and algorithms used in AEB systems.
Potential Benefits
- Increased safety for cyclists, motorcyclists, and other vulnerable road users.
- Reduction in traffic accidents and related injuries.
- Potential for technological advancements in vehicle safety systems.
- Improved public health outcomes due to fewer accidents.
- Alignment with the goal of promoting the general welfare as stated in the Constitution's preamble.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in vehicle production costs due to the enhanced AEB system requirements.
- Possible delays in vehicle production as manufacturers adapt to the new standards.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term effectiveness and reliability of the enhanced AEB systems.
- Potential for unintended consequences, such as false activation of the AEB system.
- Possible increased regulatory burden on the automotive industry.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's preamble, which includes the goal of promoting the general welfare. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce under Article I, Section 8, Clause 3, which allows them to regulate the safety features of vehicles sold across state lines. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).