This bill mandates the North Dakota Department of Transportation to conduct a study during the 2025-26 interim focused on autonomous and semiautonomous vehicle technologies. The study aims to create a regulatory and statutory framework for the operation of these vehicles on the state's highway system. Key components of the study include assessing the readiness of the state's infrastructure for these technologies, reviewing accident and traffic data with independent oversight, evaluating the need for rules regarding accident liability, and identifying vulnerabilities related to privacy and data security along with proposed solutions.

The Department of Transportation is required to present its findings and recommendations, including any necessary legislation to implement these recommendations, to the legislative management by August 1, 2026. This initiative reflects a proactive approach to ensure that North Dakota is prepared for the integration of advanced vehicle technologies while addressing safety, liability, and privacy concerns.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 39-01-01