NY S01012: Provides that a person may operate a fully autonomous vehicle on the public roads of this state without a human driver provided that the automated dr… Verified

The bill establishes a legal framework for the operation of fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) in New York, allowing them to function without a human driver under specific conditions. Key requirements include the vehicle achieving a minimal risk condition in case of system failure, compliance with traffic laws, and the necessity for insurance and registration as a fully autonomous vehicle. Operators must submit a law enforcement interaction plan detailing communication and safety protocols. The bill also defines critical terms such as 'automated driving system' and 'fully autonomous vehicle' to clarify the scope of regulation. Compliance is mandatory for any person or entity operating AVs on public roads, with the Department of Transportation as the sole and exclusive state agency for implementing the provisions of the article. The bill specifies that AVs must be registered and insured, and it outlines the responsibilities of vehicle owners in the event of a crash. Notably, the legislation allows for the establishment of on-demand autonomous vehicle networks, which could reshape transportation services in the state. Additionally, cities with a population of five million or more may establish local rules and regulations governing for-hire vehicle services using fully autonomous vehicles. The bill's provisions are designed to ensure safety and accountability in the operation of AVs, reflecting a growing trend in other states to regulate autonomous technology. Similar legislation has been enacted in states like California and Arizona, which have also established frameworks for AV operation, though New York's bill includes unique provisions regarding local governance and operational compliance.