Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes the testing of autonomous driven vehicles on state highways.

Highlights:

• Defines “autonomous driven vehicle” as a motor vehicle that is equipped with technology that has the capability to drive the vehicle without the active control or monitoring of a human operator (Sec. 2).

• Requires the entity testing an autonomous driven vehicle to submit proof of $1 million in general commercial and motor vehicle liability insurance (Sec. 1).

• Requires the vehicle to have a separate mechanism to record the vehicle’s technology sensor data for at least 30 seconds before any collision, and requires the data to be stored in read-only format for 3 years (Sec. 1).

• Requires the test driver to meet certain conditions, including, but not limited to, the following conditions (Sec. 1):
• Be at least 18 years of age;
• Possess a valid driver’s license; 
• Be able to take control of the vehicle in the event of autonomous technology failure or other emergency.

• Specifies that no manufacturer or dealer of a motor vehicle that has been converted into an autonomous driven vehicle by a third party shall be held responsible for any damages caused by defects while testing unless the defect was present in the vehicle’s manufactured form (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text