California’s Quest for Authority over Autonomous Vehicles: Empowering Cities with Local Control
The Golden State has long awaited the opportunity to exercise greater control over the implementation of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on its roadways, and the time may have finally arrived. Several bills are making their way through the California legislature, each aiming to provide cities with enhanced authority over AV operations. One of the most significant proposals is Senate Bill 915 (SB 915).
SB 915: City Power to Regulate Robotaxis
SB 915, authored by Senator Dave Cortese and Assembly member Freddie Rodriguez, grants cities the power to regulate the operation of robotaxis within their jurisdictions. This includes the ability to set hours of operation and determine appropriate pickup and drop-off locations. Cities could also establish their own permitting processes and impose penalties for AVs that violate local traffic laws.
This bill aims to address concerns that state-level regulation may not adequately consider the specific needs and priorities of individual cities. By allowing local governments to tailor regulations to their communities, SB 915 seeks to ensure that AVs operate in a manner that is safe, convenient, and respectful of local values.
Other Bills Addressing AV Regulations
Beyond SB 915, several other bills are also under consideration in the California legislature. These include:
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Assembly Bill 2286 (AB 2286):
Requires human safety operators to be present in the driver’s seat of autonomous heavy-duty vehicles.–
AB 1777:
Amends the vehicle code to require AV manufacturers to certify that their vehicles can comply with geofencing protocols and display a working phone number for communication with law enforcement and emergency responders.–
AB 3061:
Mandates more robust reporting from AV manufacturers to the DMV, including details on traffic violations, disengagements, and incidents of discrimination or access barriers for passengers with disabilities.Industry Concerns and Proponent Arguments
Industry advocates, such as the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA), have expressed concerns about the potential for a patchwork of local regulations to hinder innovation and create compliance challenges for AV companies. They argue that a more consistent, statewide approach to AV regulation would be more beneficial.
However, proponents of local control contend that cities should have a say in how AVs operate within their communities. They emphasize the need to protect the interests of residents, ensure safety, and address local transportation challenges. By empowering cities to establish their own regulations, they believe that AV deployment can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each community.
The Future of AV Regulation in California
The fate of these bills remains uncertain as they navigate the legislative process. Governor Gavin Newsom has yet to indicate his position on any of the proposals, and each bill could face amendments or vetoes along the way. Nonetheless, the progress of these bills underscores the growing recognition that cities need to have a voice in shaping the future of autonomous vehicle deployment in California.
