Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse introduces the Magnus White Bicyclist Safety Act of 2024 (Human Resources 10347), named after the slain teenage Team USA rider.
The legislation aims to protect all vulnerable road users, including cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and micromobility device users, through the widespread adoption and integration of advanced technologies. automatic emergency braking Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) technology in new cars.
If passed, the legislation would require all new vehicles weighing under 10,000 pounds to install an AEB system capable of detecting and responding to vulnerable road users in a variety of conditions.
There is already one EU requirementsAEB systems work by using sensors, cameras and radar to detect potential obstacles in the vehicle’s path, including other road users. When the system recognizes that a collision is imminent and the driver fails to react in time, it automatically applies the brakes to prevent the accident or reduce its severity.
The proposed legislation requires the Department of Transportation to develop comprehensive rules for AEB implementation within the next three years. Automakers will have two model years to comply with.
The bill is named in honor of Magnus White, a 17-year-old Team USA rider who was killed by a negligent rider on July 29, 2023, while preparing for the UCI World Championships in Glasgow outside of Boulder, Colorado.
“I’m inspired by [Magnus White’s parents’] Continued courage and advocacy to turn their pain into purpose and honor Magnus’ memory by helping to make our roads safer for everyone,” said Congressman Neguse.
“The Magnus White Bicyclist Safety Act implements common-sense solutions that can prevent tragedies and ultimately save lives.”
White’s parents expressed their support for the bill, saying: “We can’t bring Magnus back. That pain will never go away. This bill is not just about technology, it’s about saving lives when a driver fails. This is about making sure no one has to bury a loved one because the system doesn’t do enough.”
Once a bill is introduced in Congress, it is referred to a committee for review. The committee may hold hearings and make changes before a House vote. If passed, the bill will be sent to the Senate for a similar debate and vote. Once the House and Senate agree on the same version of the bill, the bill will be sent to the president to be signed into law or vetoed.
