Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act

This bill, known as the Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act, creates a formal process for individuals who have experienced abuse to request the termination or disabling of connected vehicle services misused by an abuser. A survivor is defined as an individual aged 18 or older against whom a covered act, such as domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, has been committed or alleged. The bill empowers survivors to regain control over their vehicle's connected features, which abusers might exploit for tracking or harassment. Upon receiving a valid request, a covered provider (motor vehicle manufacturer or affiliate) must take action within two business days. This includes terminating or disabling the abuser's access to the connected vehicle service account or the vehicle's services entirely. Providers must also deny abusers access to any new data generated after their access is terminated and cannot impose fees or require abuser approval for these changes. To make a request, survivors must provide the vehicle identification number, the abuser's name, and proof of sole ownership or exclusive legal possession of the vehicle. All information submitted by survivors must be treated as confidential and securely disposed of within 90 days, with strict prohibitions on sharing. The bill also mandates consumer notices on provider websites, detailing how survivors can make requests and receive updates, while offering an opt-out for sensitive communications. Furthermore, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in consultation with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is required to initiate rulemaking within 180 days to prescribe how providers address these requests. This rulemaking will focus on implementing swift, confidential reporting and notification processes that protect survivors from retaliation and ensure the removal of sensitive data. Covered providers are granted liability protection for actions taken in compliance with this Act.