SAFE Exit Act of 2026
House Panel Reviews SAFE Exit Act Requiring Manual Door Releases in All New Cars
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- Congress would require new cars with electronic door latches to also have a manual, power-free way to open each door from inside.
- The Transportation Department would have 2 years after the law is enacted to write a final safety rule, including clear labels so people can find the manual release fast.
- The rule would also need a way for emergency responders to get into the passenger area if the car loses electrical power.
- If the rule is finalized, carmakers would have up to 2 more years to meet the new requirements in newly made vehicles.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
How this policy affects specific groups of people
Milestones
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
5 articlesAuto Safety Bill Targeting Electric Doors Advances in US House
U.S. lawmakers advanced the SAFE Exit Act, which would require manual releases in new vehicles with electrically powered door handles. The bill aims to address safety concerns following incidents where occupants were trapped inside vehicles after electronic systems failed during crashes.
U.S. Rep. Proposes New Law For Car Door Handles
The SAFE Exit Act directs the NHTSA to establish standards ensuring vehicle doors can be opened easily from the inside and outside even when electrical systems are disabled. It requires a mechanical, power-independent release for every door along with standardized labeling.
Congressional SAFE Exit Act Could Make Electric Door Handles Safer
The bill would require NHTSA to establish guidelines for electric door handle operation and labeling. It specifically addresses concerns that manual overrides are often hidden or non-intuitive, making it difficult for passengers to escape during emergencies like vehicle fires.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
SAFE Exit Act of 2026
Data Sources
Sponsor
Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.