If enacted, this bill would update the definition of "implement of husbandry" in Arizona Revised Statutes by expanding it to include vehicles that are autonomous or utilize an automated driving system. The current law defines an implement of husbandry as a vehicle designed primarily for agricultural purposes, but the bill would insert language to specify that this includes vehicles that are self-propelled, operated manually, or equipped with an automated driving system, whether in use or not. Additionally, the bill would clarify that these vehicles must be used solely for agricultural purposes, which now explicitly includes the preparation or harvesting of specialty crops, defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops.

Furthermore, the bill would make technical adjustments to the existing statute, including the addition of the term "autonomous vehicle" to describe how these implements may be operated. It would also clarify the conditions under which these vehicles can be incidentally operated or moved on highways, ensuring that the definition aligns with modern agricultural practices and technology. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the legal framework surrounding agricultural vehicles to accommodate advancements in automation and autonomous technology.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 28-101
Senate Engrossed Version: 28-101
Chaptered Version: 28-101