Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act

This bill creates a fast, safe way for survivors of abuse to stop an abuser from using connected car apps to track, control, or get data from a vehicle. Car makers and their partners must act within two business days to cut off the abuser’s access, reset the car’s data or wireless links if needed, and help the survivor take control. After access is cut, the abuser can’t get any new data from the service.

To make a request, a survivor provides the car’s VIN, the abuser’s name, and proof they own or have legal possession (such as a court order, divorce decree, or restraining order). Companies can’t charge fees, raise rates, or require approval from the abuser. Survivor information must be kept confidential and deleted within 90 days. Providers must send a confirmation, give updates, help set up a safe account, and offer alternatives if email isn’t safe. If a request can’t be done for technical reasons, the company must explain why and what might fix it. Before telling the abuser, the company must first notify the survivor, wait at least three days, and only notify after access is cut.

• Who is affected: Survivors age 18+ and companies that provide connected car services (including car makers and affiliates).
• Key changes: 2-business-day cutoff of abuser access; no fees or price hikes; emergency action allowed when there’s imminent danger; company shielded from liability when following the law.
• Notices and privacy: Survivor data kept confidential and disposed of within 90 days; clear confirmations and updates; safer notice options if email is risky.
• When: Companies must comply no later than 180 days after enactment; federal rules to implement this will be proposed within 180 days and finalized within 2 years. State laws that conflict are preempted.