AI Frontier Institute

Relating to autonomous vehicles.

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This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the operation of autonomous (self-driving) vehicles in the state. It allows a person to operate an autonomous vehicle with the automated driving system (ADS) engaged without holding a standard driver's license or permit, provided certain conditions are met. The ADS must be capable of achieving a minimal risk condition or issuing a request to intervene when necessary. Autonomous vehicles must comply with existing state vehicle laws and applicable federal safety standards, though the Department of Transportation may grant equipment requirement exemptions for vehicles that operate exclusively by ADS without an onboard driver. When an autonomous vehicle is involved in a collision causing property damage, the operator has specific duties, while being exempt from certain other driver duties. The bill prescribes financial responsibility requirements for autonomous vehicle operators. Persons may operate autonomous vehicles to transport passengers or property for hire by providing required information to the Department of Transportation along with a first responder interaction plan; such authorization does not expire unless suspended or revoked. Autonomous vehicles and on-demand autonomous vehicle networks are exempted from motor carrier provisions. Local governments are expressly preempted from regulating, taxing, imposing fees on, or requiring licenses or permits for on-demand autonomous vehicle networks, and from prohibiting or regulating the operation of autonomous vehicles or such networks.

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