SAFE Exit Act of 2026

Bill Number

H.R. 6947

Origin Chamber

House

Congress

119th Congress, Session 2

Policy Area

Transportation and Public Works

Status

Introduced

Latest Action

2026-02-10: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Last Updated

2026-03-18T16:14:34Z

AI-Generated Summary

Summary of H.R. 6947: SAFE Exit Act of 2026

Purpose

This bill aims to improve motor vehicle safety by ensuring that occupants can exit vehicles quickly and easily, even if the electrical systems fail. It addresses risks from electronic door latches (mechanisms that use electricity to lock or unlock doors) by mandating manual backup options.

Key Provisions

• New Safety Standard: Adds a new section (Sec. 30130) to title 49 of the United States Code, requiring the Secretary of Transportation to issue a final rule within 2 years of the bill's enactment. This rule amends Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 206 (FMVSS 206), which sets door lock and retention rules.
• Manual Release Requirements: For vehicles with electronic door latches, the rule must include:
• A manual release for each door that works without electricity, is easy to locate, intuitive to use, and accessible to occupants for escape.
• Features allowing emergency responders to access the vehicle's interior if electrical power is lost.
• Compliance Timeline: Vehicle manufacturers must comply with the updated standard within 2 years after the rule is issued.
• Definitions: Clarifies terms like "electronic door latch" (a power-dependent door-locking system), "manual release" (a non-electric mechanical device for opening doors), and "Standard 206" (the existing federal regulation on door safety).
• Short Title: "Securing Accessible Functional Emergency Exit Act of 2026" or "SAFE Exit Act of 2026."

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expands FMVSS 206, which previously focused on door strength and basic locking but did not specifically address electronic failures or manual overrides.
• Introduces mandatory performance and labeling requirements for electronic systems, shifting from optional to required safety features in new vehicles.

Potential Impacts

• Government Agencies: The Department of Transportation (DOT), through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), will need to develop, issue, and enforce the new rule, potentially increasing regulatory oversight and testing of vehicles.
• Citizens: Enhances occupant safety during accidents, fires, or power failures (e.g., from battery issues), potentially reducing entrapment risks and saving lives. No direct costs to consumers, but vehicles may see slight price increases from added features.
• International Relations: Minimal impact, as the bill applies to U.S. standards; it could indirectly influence global automakers exporting to the U.S. but does not address foreign policy.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• Vehicle Manufacturers: Must redesign and certify new models to include the manual releases, facing compliance costs and timelines.
• Consumers and Vehicle Occupants: Benefit from safer egress options, particularly in emergencies.
• Emergency Responders: Gain easier access to vehicles without power, improving rescue operations.
• NHTSA/DOT: Responsible for rulemaking, enforcement, and monitoring compliance.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal: Strengthens federal vehicle safety authority under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, with no apparent conflicts to existing regulations. Enforcement could involve fines for non-compliance.
• Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce and promote public safety; no privacy, speech, or due process concerns evident.
• Political: Represents a bipartisan push for consumer protection in an era of increasing vehicle electrification, potentially setting a precedent for future tech-safety mandates without major controversy.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Kelly, Robin L. [D-IL-2]

Recent Actions

• 2026-02-10: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
• 2026-02-10: Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
• 2026-01-06: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
• 2026-01-06: Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade.
• 2026-01-06: Introduced in House
• 2026-01-06: Introduced in House

Bill Versions

• Securing Accessible Funtional Emergency Exit Act of 2026 — issued 2026-01-06 — PDF (3 pages)