This bill establishes a five-year pilot program in New Jersey to allow autonomous vehicle testers to operate fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) in both closed and open-road testbeds. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, in consultation with the Department of Transportation, will oversee the program, which will be guided by a task force composed of public safety officials, transportation experts, and representatives from the autonomous vehicle industry. The task force is responsible for providing quarterly reports, soliciting public feedback, and developing safety protocols related to AV operations, including responses to collisions and cyberattacks. Testers must meet specific requirements, including registering their vehicles, providing proof of substantial liability insurance, and ensuring that operators are properly trained and licensed.

The bill outlines stringent safety and operational standards for AVs participating in the pilot program. These vehicles must be equipped with redundant safety systems, crash-avoidance technologies, and must comply with cybersecurity standards. Additionally, all AV collisions must be reported to the Department of Transportation within 48 hours. The bill also addresses the operation of AVs as taxis and commercial trucks, stipulating designated highways for their use and specific monitoring and licensing requirements. Finally, the commission is tasked with submitting a report to the Governor and Legislature six months after the pilot program's conclusion, evaluating its effectiveness and providing recommendations for the future integration of AVs on state highways.