Driverless Trucks: What Happens if The State of California Bans Them Now

California Still Trying to Ban Driverless Trucks

California lawmakers have passed a bill to ban driverless trucks once more. The bill, called AB 2286, would stop trucks over 10,001 pounds from using public roads without a human safety operator inside. This rule would apply to trucks used for testing, transporting goods, or carrying passengers.

Waiting on Governor Newsom’s Decision

Last year, Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a similar bill. He said it was “unnecessary.” Now, it’s unclear if he will veto this new bill. The decision is in his hands as the bill moves to his desk again.

Industry Groups Oppose the Ban of Driverless Trucks

The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) wants Newsom to veto the bill again. AVIA CEO Jeff Farrah said that over 50 groups, including disability advocates and community organizations, oppose the bill. Farrah believes driverless trucks could bring many benefits, like better safety and a stronger supply chain.

Concerns About Safety Rules

Farrah also worries the bill could block the work of safety regulators at the California DMV and Highway Patrol. “It’s time to take the politics out of AV safety,” he said, stressing the need for fair safety checks.

Reporting and Review Rules

If the bill becomes law, truck companies would have to report any crashes that cause damage, injury, or death to the California DMV within ten days. They would also need to provide yearly reports on when they turned off the autonomous mode of their trucks. The DMV would have to check how driverless trucks affect safety and jobs by 2030 or five years after testing starts, whichever is later.

What’s Next for Driverless Trucks?

As AB 2286 heads to Governor Newsom’s desk, everyone is waiting to see if he will veto it again or let it become law.