IL SB1432: AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE ACT Verified

The Safe Autonomous Vehicle Act requires Motor Vehicle Manufacturers to self-certify compliance with specified conditions before commencing a SAVE project involving Automated Driving Systems (ADS). The SAVE project may involve making an On-Demand Automated Vehicle Network available to the public. Manufacturers must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and define geographical boundaries for their projects. They are also responsible for maintaining incident records and providing summaries to the DMV and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Failure to comply with the eligibility requirements can result in a $10,000 fine for a first violation, with a second or subsequent violation being classified as a Class A misdemeanor. The bill specifically outlines that manufacturers must insure their Participating Fleets and assume liability for incidents caused by their ADS technology. This shifts the burden of liability from individual operators to manufacturers, which could influence insurance practices within the industry. The act preempts local regulations, ensuring a uniform state-level framework for autonomous vehicle operations. Key definitions in the bill include 'Automated Driving System' and 'Participating Fleet,' which clarify the scope of the legislation. The act also emphasizes data collection and privacy, requiring manufacturers to disclose data handling practices to participants. Overall, this legislation positions Illinois as a proactive state in the regulation of autonomous vehicle technology, aligning with trends seen in other states that are also developing frameworks for ADS deployment.