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In a move to protect domestic violence victims, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a law aimed at curbing tech-enabled abuse. This legislation mandates that automobile manufacturers disable an abuser’s access to remote vehicle technology within two business days of a victim’s request, provided the victim submits proper documentation. The law is designed to prevent abusers from stalking victims or manipulating vehicle controls.
Named SB 1394, this law is part of a broader legislative effort, encompassing eight separate bills aimed at safeguarding domestic violence survivors. The bill emphasizes California’s commitment to helping victims escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives. The new law covers any remote, app-connected, or GPS-based vehicle technology, addressing a pressing issue highlighted by California Senator Dave Min. He noted that major car manufacturers have often been reluctant or unable to disable GPS access, even when abusers exploited these features to stalk and harass victims.
By July 2025, car manufacturers will be required to establish processes that allow victims to request disconnection from connected vehicle services. Victims will need to provide documentation, such as proof of ownership or a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO), to facilitate this process.
Looking ahead, the law mandates that vehicles manufactured after January 1, 2028, with location services, must include a mechanism for drivers to disable tracking instantly. Vehicles produced between July 1, 2026, and January 1, 2028, must be capable of receiving software updates to support this requirement.
While SB 1394 marks a significant step forward, it does not address the growing concern of independent tracking devices, such as Apple AirTags, which have been increasingly used by abusers. However, technology companies have cooperated to implement a process where your phone will alert you if it identifies an unknown AirTag (or Android equivalent) following you, regardless of whether your phone is from the corresponding manufacturer.
