Bill > S2351

This bill aims to promote the safe integration of autonomous vehicles (AVs) into Massachusetts' transportation system. Key provisions include: 1. Defining different levels of vehicle automation, with specific requirements for "level 3" vehicles (which have an automated driving system but expect a human driver to be available) and "autonomous vehicles" (which can operate without a human driver). 2. Authorizing the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to promulgate regulations for testing and deploying level 3 and autonomous vehicles, with a focus on protecting privacy, ensuring data security, and equitably distributing benefits and costs. 3. Allowing testing and deployment of certified level 3 and autonomous vehicles, subject to various safety and data collection requirements. 4. Establishing speed limits for autonomous vehicles and allowing municipalities to restrict their use or impose parking charges in certain circumstances. 5. Imposing a "road usage charge" on autonomous vehicles, with various rate adjustments based on factors like emissions, occupancy, congestion, and income. The revenue from this charge would be credited to the Commonwealth Transportation Fund. Overall, the bill seeks to facilitate the integration of autonomous vehicles while addressing safety, equity, and infrastructure funding concerns.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2351