The bill introduces new regulations for the operation and testing of autonomous vehicles in Washington State. It mandates that all autonomous vehicles registered in the state must comply with federal standards and that a human safety operator must be present in the vehicle during operation to monitor its performance and intervene if necessary. The bill defines "autonomous vehicle" and "human safety operator," specifying the levels of driving automation that qualify as autonomous and the qualifications required for the safety operator.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding the testing of autonomous vehicles on public roadways. It requires self-certifying entities to provide detailed information to the Department of Transportation, including vehicle identification numbers, insurance proof, and notifications of any collisions or moving violations during testing. The bill also stipulates that testing cannot commence until the requirements outlined in the new section are met, ensuring that safety and regulatory compliance are prioritized in the deployment of autonomous vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.92.010