Bill > B26-0153

This bill modifies the Autonomous Vehicle Act of 2012 to establish stricter regulations for testing autonomous vehicles (AVs) in the District of Columbia. Specifically, the bill prohibits testing or operating an autonomous vehicle on District roadways without an AV testing permit, with a temporary exception for situations where the Department of Transportation has not yet made a permit application available. During this temporary period, AV testing is only allowed if a test operator is physically present in the vehicle and prepared to take over driving tasks, the testing entity complies with local and federal laws, and provides electronic notification to the Department at least 10 business days before testing. The notification must include details such as the number of vehicles, their models, operator licensing information, geographic testing locations, and testing time periods. The bill also repeals a previous section of the law and makes a minor technical amendment to language regarding AV testing entities. As an emergency act, this bill will remain in effect for up to 90 days after approval by the Mayor, providing a short-term regulatory framework for autonomous vehicle testing in the District of Columbia.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0153