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IPFS News Link • Transportation

Florida First To Waive Driver Requirement For Self-Driving Autos

• https://www.technocracy.news by Jason Plautz

Florida will allow autonomous vehicles (AVs) to operate on public roads without a human driver starting next month, under a new law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, R.

The bill, designed to facilitate more AV testing in the state, sets out a statutory framework for insurance and safety rules for the vehicles. It also exempts AV passengers from distracted driving rules that bar texting and phone use.

The bill was signed at the SunTrax facility, the southeast's only high-speed AV testing facility, marking the completion of the center's newest AV test track.

Florida has positioned itself as a leader for AV testing. The state has been allowing companies to test on some public roads and has authorized autonomous shuttles for use in Orlando.

The new law will put Florida on par with other states that have passed progressive laws to encourage automakers and tech startups to bring AV testing. Arizona, California, Utah and Pennsylvania have all pushed policy to make it easier for AVs to operate on public roads.


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