California Passes Self-Driving Car Bill Vetoed Last Year

California's New Autonomous Vehicle Law

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law on September 29, 2022, that will allow the testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public roads without a human driver in the vehicle.

The new law, Assembly Bill 1513, is similar to a bill that was vetoed by former Governor Jerry Brown in 2018. However, the new law includes some additional safety requirements, such as requiring AVs to be equipped with a remote monitoring system that can be used to take control of the vehicle if necessary.

What the New Law Means for California

The new law is a significant step forward for the development of AVs in California. It will allow companies to test and deploy AVs on public roads without having to obtain a special permit from the state.

The law is also expected to create jobs and boost the state's economy. A study by the California Department of Transportation found that the deployment of AVs could create up to 100,000 new jobs in the state by 2030.

What the New Law Means for AV Companies

The new law provides AV companies with a clear regulatory framework for testing and deploying their vehicles on public roads. This will give companies the confidence they need to invest in the development of AVs.

The law also includes some provisions that are designed to protect consumers. For example, the law requires AV companies to obtain insurance for their vehicles and to provide consumers with information about the safety features of their vehicles.

The Future of AVs in California

The new law is a major milestone in the development of AVs in California. It is a sign that the state is committed to supporting the development of this new technology.

It is likely that the deployment of AVs will have a significant impact on California's transportation system. AVs could help to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and make transportation more accessible for people with disabilities.

Conclusion

The passage of AB 1513 is a significant step forward for the development of AVs in California. The law provides a clear regulatory framework for testing and deploying AVs on public roads, and it is expected to create jobs and boost the state's economy.