Policy 17 January 2026 - 3 February 2026

Waymo and Tesla tell Congress: Act now on self-driving cars — or China sets the rules
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Waymo and Tesla tell Congress: Act now on self-driving cars — or China sets the rules

Waymo and Tesla executives, joined by U.S. senators, are pressing Congress to pass stalled self-driving car legislation, warning that delays could let China set global standards. The Senate Commerce Committee will hold a hearing Wednesday as federal safety investigations and recent incidents raise concerns. Waymo reports 200 million autonomous miles and lower crash rates; Tesla cites improved safety data from its Full Self-Driving system.
February 4, 2026
Texas bans Temu and Shein on state devices as Abbott expands China tech blacklist to 26 firms
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Texas bans Temu and Shein on state devices as Abbott expands China tech blacklist to 26 firms

Texas has added 26 China-linked companies, including Alibaba, Shein, and Temu’s parent PDD, to its banned technologies list for state devices and networks. The update, led by Texas Cyber Command, covers hardware, software, and AI tools. Governor Greg Abbott cited threats from hostile foreign actors. Companies named did not respond to requests for comment.
January 27, 2026
Kansas could ban student cellphones bell-to-bell — here’s what SB 302 would do
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Kansas could ban student cellphones bell-to-bell — here’s what SB 302 would do

Kansas lawmakers heard divided testimony this week on Senate Bill 302, which would ban student use of personal electronic devices during all school hours statewide. The Kansas Board of Education stayed neutral but prefers local control. The bill offers no extra funding, with implementation costs estimated at $13.4 million. Both parties back the measure; Gov. Laura Kelly supports it.
January 17, 2026