Senate Bill 831 establishes an Autonomous Driving Safety Board within the Department of Transportation to oversee the operation of autonomous vehicles on highways in Wisconsin. The board will consist of six members appointed by various legislative leaders and the governor, serving three-year terms. To operate an autonomous vehicle, individuals must apply for a permit from the board, which requires them to title and register their vehicles, provide proof of financial responsibility for any damages, and submit information on how emergency services should interact with their vehicles. The board has the authority to approve or deny permit applications, approve specific highways for autonomous vehicle operation, and suspend or revoke permits if public safety is deemed at risk.

The bill also introduces specific definitions related to autonomous vehicles and outlines the requirements for permit holders, including annual reporting on safety and traffic operations. It establishes penalties for operating an autonomous vehicle without a valid permit, with fines up to $1,000. Additionally, the bill specifies that the board may not approve the operation of autonomous vehicles on interstate highways, ensuring that safety regulations are in place for this emerging technology.