Assembly Bill 271 proposes to amend Wisconsin law to allow commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to utilize camera monitor systems as an alternative to traditional mirrors. Currently, state law mandates that all motor vehicles must be equipped with mirrors to provide a rear view, in alignment with federal regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). However, the FMCSA has established exemptions for CMVs that are equipped with specific camera monitor systems.

The bill introduces new legal language under section 347.40 (4), stating that despite existing requirements, a CMV may be equipped with an FMCSA-approved camera monitor system instead of mirrors. This change aims to modernize vehicle safety standards and align state regulations with federal exemptions, potentially enhancing safety and operational efficiency for commercial drivers.