In state legislatures across the United States, the use of autonomous trucks on public roads has become a notable topic of discussion. Here’s a summary of the recent developments in various states:
California
In the Golden State, efforts to regulate autonomous trucks are back on the legislative table. Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry reintroduced AB2286, a bill identical to the 2023 version. The bill aims to prohibit the testing and operation of autonomous vehicles weighing over 10,001 pounds without a human safety operator present. The governor’s previous veto emphasized reliance on existing regulations from a 2012 state law.
Florida
Senator Victor Torres is steering legislation in Florida to establish rules for autonomous trucks on roadways. Under SB1580, a licensed human operator must be physically present in fully autonomous vehicles weighing at least 10,000 pounds while transporting goods or passengers on public roads.
Indiana
Indiana is considering two bills (HB1022 and SB57) to address autonomous trucks, specifically in automated vehicle platoons. These bills specify that a human operator must be physically present in autonomous tractor-trailers on highways for the transportation of passengers or goods. Operators are required to meet both state and federal qualifications for vehicle operation.
Iowa
Senator Zach Wahls introduced SF2218 in Iowa, addressing the operation of autonomous trucks for commercial purposes. The bill mandates a conventional driver’s physical presence in driverless-capable vehicles, holding a valid driver’s license and required endorsements.
Kentucky
Kentucky is revisiting truck platooning legislation with HB7. This bill amends the requirement for human drivers in platoons, allowing only the lead vehicle to have a human driver behind the wheel. The previous attempt faced a veto due to safety concerns.
New York
In the Empire State, two bills cover the operation of autonomous trucks. Senator Pete Harckham’s bill (S7758) requires operators to accompany trucks with autonomous technology weighing over 10,000 pounds. The bills are currently under committee review in the Senate Transportation Committee and Assembly Transportation Committee.
The debate over autonomous trucking continues, with advocates highlighting benefits such as fuel savings, reduced congestion, and improved safety through platooning. Critics, including motorcyclists, express concerns about the interaction between automated and traditional vehicles on roadways and question the feasibility of widespread technology adoption. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association acknowledges the potential of autonomous technology but emphasizes challenges related to commercial vehicles and highway safety.
Source: LandLine
