Bill > SB6243

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the operation of autonomous motor vehicles (vehicles equipped with automated driving systems, or ADS, that can perform the entire driving task) on public roads in Washington state. It defines key terms like "automated driving system," "dynamic driving task" (all real-time functions needed to operate a vehicle), and "minimal risk condition" (a safe, stopped state). The bill requires these vehicles to achieve a minimal risk condition or issue a "request to intervene" (an alert for a human driver to take over) in case of system failure, comply with traffic laws unless exempted, display federal certification, and carry liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence. Operators must obtain authorization from the state, which includes submitting vehicle information and a "first responder action plan" detailing how emergency personnel should interact with the vehicle. The ADS is considered the driver for legal compliance purposes, and the bill outlines procedures for accident reporting and for the state to suspend or revoke operating authorizations if a vehicle is deemed unsafe. It also specifically addresses "on-demand autonomous vehicle networks" (services that use apps to dispatch autonomous vehicles), stating they are primarily regulated by state law and local jurisdictions cannot impose additional operational restrictions or fees beyond those applied to similar services like transportation network companies. The bill repeals existing pilot program legislation and sets an effective date of October 1, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6243&Year=2025&Initiative=false