By Norihiko Shirouzu and Abhirup Roy AUSTIN (Reuters) -Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, has signed legislation requiring a permit to operate self-driving vehicles just before Tesla's planned launch of a robotaxi trial on Sunday in Austin,

Seven Democratic lawmakers in Texas are pressing Tesla to hold off on deploying its fleet of autonomous robotaxis in Austin, just days ahead of the company’s anticipated launch. The appeal comes amid growing concern about public safety and regulatory readiness as driverless vehicles prepare to hit the roads.

When is the robotaxi event? This Sunday, June 22, Tesla will give a select group of people the chance to ride in its Model Y Robotaxis in Austin, Texas, where the EV maker moved its headquarters from California in 2021.