Transportation (Autonomous Vehicles)

SB 831 creates an Autonomous Driving Safety Board within the Department of Transportation to regulate autonomous vehicle operations on state highways. The bill requires operators to obtain a board-approved permit, involving an application, public hearing, and two-thirds board vote for approval before operating, while prohibiting use on interstate highways. It sets a strict blood alcohol limit of 0.02 for anyone operating an autonomous vehicle and imposes a $1,000 penalty for operating without a valid permit. Permit holders must register vehicles, provide insurance coverage, submit annual safety reports, and share protocols for emergency services interaction.

AB 848 creates an Autonomous Driving Safety Board within the Department of Transportation to regulate autonomous vehicle operations on state highways. Operators must obtain a board-approved permit, requiring a public hearing, a two-thirds board vote for approval, and adherence to safety standards like maintaining financial responsibility for damages. The bill sets a lower blood alcohol limit (0.02%) for autonomous vehicle operators and prohibits operation on interstate highways. Violating the permit requirement carries a $1,000 penalty, while operators must submit annual safety reports detailing traffic interactions and incident data.