Bill > S1841

This bill establishes regulations for autonomous vehicles, which are defined as motor vehicles capable of operating without active human control or continuous monitoring due to advanced technology like computers and sensors. The bill clarifies that vehicles with driver-assistance features, such as automated emergency braking or lane keeping assist, are not considered autonomous vehicles unless they can drive themselves without human oversight. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (DOT) will set safety standards and performance requirements for autonomous vehicles to operate on public roads, and manufacturers must certify their vehicles meet these standards. Manufacturers can also test autonomous vehicles on public roads if they and the vehicles meet specific testing safety requirements. The bill also states that autonomous vehicles can be operated and tested on public roads even before the DOT formally adopts these regulations.