Earlier this year, Kentucky introduced House Bill 7, a legislative proposal aimed at facilitating the integration of fully autonomous vehicles within the state. This bill seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the operation of self-driving vehicles on public highways. Among its key provisions are guidelines for autonomous vehicles and their automated driving systems, as well as specific requirements for proof of insurance or self-insurance amounting to $1 million for death, bodily injury, and property damage for both personal and commercial fully autonomous vehicles. Notably, the bill also includes exemptions relieving fully autonomous vehicles from certain regulations applicable to human drivers.
Despite successfully passing the Kentucky House with a 61-31 vote, the bill underwent a significant amendment. This modification introduced a crucial requirement stipulating the presence of a human operator inside any fully autonomous vehicle “for which the declared gross weight of the vehicle and any towed unit is more than 62,000 pounds” until July 31, 2026. The operator would be responsible for “monitoring the performance of the vehicle and intervening if necessary.”
This particular provision garnered opposition from various groups, including members of the Teamsters Union, police officers, firefighters, and others. In response to the amendment, these stakeholders collectively assembled at the state capitol in Frankfort on Thursday, urging Kentucky senators to vote against the bill.
The opposition group, composed of Teamsters union members, police officers, and firefighters, emphasized their concerns about the amended requirement for a human operator within fully autonomous vehicles. They argued that such a mandate could hinder the potential benefits and advancements associated with autonomous technology.
“We cannot let California’s Big Tech write laws for our state. Lawmakers need to pass legislation that’s by and for Kentucky residents,” said Fred Zuckerman, Teamsters general secretary-treasurer. “Senators need to preserve good union jobs, safe streets, and the will of the people by stopping this bill dead in its tracks.”
The gathering at the state capitol served as a unified effort to express dissent and encourage Kentucky senators to reject the bill in its current form. The ongoing debate reflects the complex intersection of technological innovation, regulatory considerations, and the broader societal implications of autonomous vehicle integration.
Source: Commercial Carrier Journal
