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Senate approves rule that commercial autonomous vehicles must have a human present
Summary
The Senate passed House Bill 11-22 requiring a human presence in commercial motor vehicles operated by automated driving systems on public roadways. Sponsors and supporters cited safety; some senators cautioned against stifling innovation.
On May 2 the Colorado Senate approved House Bill 11-22, a measure that prohibits the use of an automated driving system to drive a commercial motor vehicle on a roadway unless a human is present to monitor the system.
Senator Sullivan, the sponsor, said the measure focuses on safety and liability for heavy commercial rigs and makes clear the restriction applies to public roadways. Senator Liston and others said safety is paramount for heavy vehicles operating on mountain passes and public highways.
Opponents noted the technology is advancing and cautioned the statute should not inadvertently block innovation or private/industrial uses on private property. Senator Simpson described industrial and mine-site uses where autonomy has demonstrably improved safety; sponsors said the intent is limited to public-road operations and would not preclude private-site autonomous uses.
The Senate passed the bill on second/third reading on the floor (motion carried; transcript: "The ayes have it. House bill 11 22 is passed").
