Vehicle Laws - Fully Autonomous Vehicles
If enacted, SB909 will significantly alter current vehicle laws in the state by allowing fully autonomous vehicles to operate without a human driver under stipulated conditions. It presents requirements for financial responsibility and personal injury protection, mandating that vehicles maintain proof of insurance in specific amounts. The bill also categorically states that AVs are exempt from certain equipment laws that do not pertain to automated operation, thereby shaping insurance and liability considerations in a way that aligns with modern technological advancements.
Senate Bill 909, titled 'Vehicle Laws - Fully Autonomous Vehicles,' aims to establish a regulatory framework for the operation of fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) on highways in Maryland. The bill defines a fully autonomous vehicle as one equipped with an automated driving system capable of functioning without a human driver. It specifies standards for operation, safety, and data privacy, integrating provisions from both state transportation laws and commercial law regarding the handling of personal data collected from AVs.
Notably, the bill includes a provision that forbids local jurisdictions from imposing additional taxes or regulations on fully autonomous vehicles, which could spark debate about local governance versus state control over transportation regulations. Furthermore, provisions related to data collection and its alignment with the Online Data Privacy Act may raise concerns among privacy advocates regarding how data is used and protected when collected by AVs. The bill aims to balance technological progress with public safety and regulatory compliance.