SF MAYOR DEMANDS TOUGHER ROBOTAXI RULES

The gridlock event, which lasted several hours, prompted Lurie to escalate calls for regulatory oversight of robotaxi services operating in the city. The mayor's push targets Waymo and other autonomous vehicle operators, seeking additional requirements to prevent similar disruptions. The incident highlighted growing tensions between autonomous vehicle expansion and San Francisco's street management. City officials have increasingly raised concerns about robotaxis' impact on traffic flow and emergency vehicle access. Lurie's intervention marks an escalation beyond local city council discussions, bringing the issue directly to state regulators who oversee autonomous vehicle permits. The move signals that San Francisco intends to pursue regulatory measures rather than voluntary compliance standards. Waymo has not yet responded to the mayor's demands. The company operates a paid driverless service in San Francisco and has expanded operations despite periodic disruptions and safety concerns raised by residents and officials.