The bill amends Section 319.145 of the Florida Statutes to enhance safety regulations for autonomous vehicles registered in the state. It mandates that these vehicles must comply with all federal motor vehicle standards, regulations, and laws. Additionally, it prohibits autonomous vehicles from engaging in interstate commerce or transporting passengers or goods for hire unless a licensed human operator is physically present to monitor the vehicle's performance and take control if necessary. The operator is also required to adhere to all relevant federal and state standards.

Furthermore, the bill introduces the term "minimal risk condition," which refers to a safe state that the vehicle must achieve in the event of an automated driving system failure. The legislation clarifies that if the autonomous vehicle is not fully autonomous, it must have a system to alert the human operator of any failures while the automated system is engaged. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1469 Filed: 319.145