California passes requirements on carmakers and domestic violence

By Dan Levine and Kristina Cooke

(Reuters) - Lawmakers in the most populous U.S. state approved a proposal that requires automakers selling internet-connected cars to do more to protect domestic abuse survivors, in what appears to be the first measure in the nation addressing the issue to pass a legislature.

As automakers add ever more sophisticated technology to their cars, instances of stalking and harassment using features such as location tracking and remote controls have begun to emerge.

The bill, which passed the California state legislature late last month with overwhelming support, now awaits a decision from Governor Gavin Newsom on whether he will sign it into law. One of the bill's authors, state Senator Dave Min, said Newsom's staff had been involved in negotiations over its terms, as were different car manufacturers, including Tesla.

Tara Gallegos, deputy director of communications for Newsom, said in an email on Monday that the measure will be "evaluated on its merits." Tesla has not filed any public letters in support of or opposition to the bill, and the company did not respond to a request for comment.

Legislative analysts cited reporting from Reuters and the New York Times about carmakers who did not help women who alleged they were being targeted by their partners. One woman unsuccessfully sued Tesla, alleging the company failed to act after she repeatedly complained that her husband was stalking and harassing her with the automaker's technology despite a restraining order.

Among its provisions, the California bill requires automakers to set up a clear process for drivers to submit a copy of a restraining order or other documentation and request termination of another driver’s remote access within two business days. It also mandates that carmakers enable drivers to easily turn off location access from inside the vehicle.

The deadline for Newsom to make a decision is Sept. 30.

(Reporting by Dan Levine; editing by Jonathan Oatis)