During the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission meeting on July 17, 2025, in Sunnyvale, a significant discussion emerged regarding the challenges posed by autonomous vehicles, particularly Waymo, in relation to public safety and city regulations.

Commission members expressed concerns about the presence of self-driving cars blocking essential infrastructure, such as fire hydrants. One member highlighted their proactive approach by reporting these incidents to law enforcement, ensuring that the vehicles are moved promptly. However, a pressing question arose: who is responsible for penalizing these autonomous vehicles when they violate traffic regulations?

The discussion underscored the need for clarity from state authorities on how to handle infractions involving artificial intelligence-operated vehicles. As it stands, the current legal framework does not specify who should receive citations for such violations, leaving city officials in a state of uncertainty.

The commission acknowledged the urgency of this issue, noting that if the state does not provide a resolution soon, the city may need to consider legal action to address ongoing concerns. This highlights the growing intersection of technology and public policy, emphasizing the need for updated regulations that can effectively manage the implications of autonomous vehicles on community safety and infrastructure.

As the city awaits guidance from the state, the commission's discussions reflect a proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies, ensuring that public safety remains a priority in Sunnyvale.