Introduction:
Cities in California are seeking more control over the deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on their streets. Several AV-related bills have progressed through the state legislature, potentially imposing more restrictions on companies like Cruise, Motional, Waymo, and Zoox. One bill in particular, SB 915, stands out as it could give cities the power to set their own rules for robotaxis. However, there are concerns about the potential impact on innovation and compliance. This article explores the various bills, their current status, and the implications for companies and the public.
SB 915 – Giving local governments more power over AVs:
SB 915, introduced by State Senator Dave Cortese and Assembly member Freddie Rodriguez, aims to allow local governments to have a say in the operations of AV services within their communities. It would enable cities to regulate aspects such as hours of operation and the number of vehicles on the road at any given time. Additionally, cities would be able to create their own permitting processes and penalties for AVs that violate local traffic laws. They could also collaborate with other local governments to collectively regulate AV services. However, it’s important to note that if local governments fail to create their own ordinances, the default guidelines would align with state-approved regulations.
Concerns and Precedent:
Opponents of SB 915, including the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) and various business groups, argue that creating a patchwork of local regulations could hinder compliance and restrict innovation. However, cities already have the authority to set their own regulations on transportation-related matters, such as vehicle operation for hire and traffic control at construction sites. State Senator Cortese believes that involving local governments in AV regulation would provide a more nimble approach compared to the state’s bureaucratic system.
Industry Self-Regulation:
The AV industry has recently published its TRUST principles, which serve as guidelines for safe AV operations. These principles cover transparency, community engagement, cybersecurity, privacy standards, and more. The industry aims to demonstrate its ability to self-regulate, emphasizing the importance of involving elected officials in decisions regarding AI technology deployment.
Other AV Bills in California:
Besides SB 915, there are several other AV bills making their way through the legislature. AB 2286 seeks to require human safety operators in autonomous heavy-duty vehicles. AB 1777 proposes amendments to the current vehicle code relating to AVs, including geofencing protocols and communication requirements with law enforcement. AB 3061 calls for more comprehensive reporting by AV manufacturers, including traffic violations, disengagements, and incidents of discrimination or barriers to access for passengers with disabilities.
Conclusion:
The AV-related bills progressing through California’s legislature have the potential to give cities more control over AV operations while also raising concerns about compliance and innovation. SB 915 specifically aims to empower local governments to regulate various aspects of AV services. However, opponents argue that this could create a complex patchwork of regulations. The AV industry advocates for self-regulation through its TRUST principles. Other bills address issues such as safety operators, reporting requirements, and incident forms. The fate of these bills ultimately rests with Governor Gavin Newsom, who may veto them.
