Goldwater Lauds Arizona’s Free Market as Catalyst for Autonomous Vehicle Triumphs

By Matthew Holloway |

The Goldwater Institute has commended Arizona for leading the way in creating a favorable environment for autonomous vehicles (AVs). Their report underscores the significance of Executive Order 2015-09, which was signed by former Governor Doug Ducey, laying the groundwork for AV development and testing standards.

According to the report, AVs exhibit remarkable safety statistics, showing an 81% reduction in airbag deployments, 78% fewer crashes that cause injuries, and a 62% decrease in police-reported accidents compared to vehicles driven by humans. This data is drawn from over 20 million miles of rider-only service recorded as of September 2024.

Goldwater Institute elaborated on the broader implications of AV technology in a statement to AZ Free News, noting that it is not solely about road safety. They argue that AVs are transforming transportation for the elderly and disabled and unlocking significant economic opportunities. Unlike human drivers, AVs are not susceptible to fatigue, distraction, or impairment, enhancing reliability in the transportation ecosystem.

Despite Arizona’s progressive stance, Goldwater Institute pointed out that many other states have adopted restrictive measures. It criticized burdensome “driver in” laws and local regulations that could hinder AV innovation. “The key question for policymakers is whether they will adapt to future technologies or hinder their development,” they stated.

The institution highlights the evolution of Arizona’s AV policies. The initial executive order, paired with a 2018 update to keep pace with technological advancements, was officially incorporated into state law in 2021. This proactive approach has allowed 13 AV manufacturers to receive state authorization for testing and deployment.

Goldwater Institute advocates for other states to follow Arizona’s model, emphasizing “permissionless innovation” to fully harness the advantages of AV technology. They criticized the lengthy regulatory processes in states like California, where AV firms face prolonged waits of over two years from proposal to deployment. Furthermore, new legislation could enable cities to impose their own permitting requirements and restrict AV operations.

In contrast, several states are implementing regressive “Driver In” bills and complicated municipal regulatory frameworks, creating disjointed and inconsistent laws around AVs. Goldwater emphasizes that these initiatives, driven by special interests, overlook substantial evidence demonstrating the benefits of AV safety.

The insights gained from Arizona’s experience serve as both a counterexample and a strategic guideline. As other states aim to secure investment and job creation, they should consider adopting similar policies. The future of transportation will inevitably include autonomous vehicles, and Arizona currently holds a significant advantage.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.