In one paragraph
Tennessee's SB0310 (114th General Assembly), as introduced, would have amended Code § 55-30-103 so that an automated-driving-system (ADS) vehicle used to transport property for hire or compensation in interstate commerce, or passengers for hire or compensation, could not operate on Tennessee roads with the ADS engaged unless a licensed human driver sits in the driver's seat, monitors the vehicle at all times and can take control. Companion: HB 1168. Not passed before the session ended in April 2026; last action: Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Transportation and Safety Committee (February 12, 2025).
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
Not law. If enacted, ADS operators hauling freight for hire in interstate commerce or carrying passengers for hire would have had to keep a licensed, attentive human driver in the driver's seat on Tennessee roads.
Key provisions
- Current § 55-30-103 lets an ADS-operated vehicle operate with the ADS engaged without a human driver physically present if conditions are met; the bill would make that subject to a new subsection (b)
- ADS vehicles used to transport property for hire or compensation in interstate commerce, or to transport passengers for hire or compensation, would need a human driver in the driver's seat
- That driver would have to monitor the vehicle's performance at all times, be able to intervene to take physical control if necessary, and hold a valid license for the vehicle type or class; the vehicle must also meet the existing subsection (a) conditions
- As introduced, the act would have taken effect July 1, 2025
- Status: referred to the Senate Transportation and Safety Committee on February 12, 2025 with no later Senate action; companion HB 1168 stalled in House Finance, Ways, and Means; not passed before the 114th General Assembly ended in April 2026
Latest legislative action
Feb 12, 2025. Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Transportation and Safety Committee
Sponsors (showing 5 of 7)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Hicks | Primary |
| Lundberg | Primary |
| Massey | Primary |
| Niceley | Primary |
| Powers | Primary |
Amendments (1)
-
HA0701 Not adopted 2026-03-18
Topics and industries
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Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error