OR HB4085: Relating to autonomous vehicles.

In one paragraph

Not law. Oregon HB 4085 (2026) would have let autonomous vehicles run on Oregon highways with the driving system engaged if they can reach a minimal risk condition or request intervention, follow state vehicle law and meet federal safety standards. It would have required at least $1 million per occurrence third-party liability coverage, state authorization for driverless for-hire service and local preemption. It had a public hearing in the House Transportation committee and was in committee upon adjournment March 6, 2026.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

None: the bill died and never became law. It would have bound autonomous vehicle operators and on-demand AV networks in Oregon.

Key provisions

1. 1A person could operate an autonomous vehicle with the automated driving system engaged if it can reach a minimal risk condition or request to intervene, can follow state vehicle law, and meets federal motor vehicle safety standards (Sec. 4)
2. 2The driving system would be treated as the driver; the onboard operator or owner stays liable for traffic violations (Sec. 5)
3. 3Operators would need required liability insurance plus at least $1 million combined single limit per-occurrence third-party liability coverage when the system is engaged (Sec. 8)
4. 4Driverless for-hire operation would need Department of Transportation authorization and a first responder interaction plan; authorization would not expire unless suspended or revoked (Secs. 10, 12)
5. 5Local governments could not ban, tax or add AV-specific requirements, and on-demand AV networks would be exempt from ORS chapter 825 motor carrier rules (Secs. 11, 13)
6. 6Referred to Transportation; public hearing February 9, 2026; in committee upon adjournment March 6, 2026; not enacted; no effective date stated in the text

Latest legislative action

Mar 6, 2026. In committee upon adjournment.

Sponsors (showing 5 of 40)