Governor Kathy Hochul is proposing legislation to expand New York's current regulations, potentially allowing companies to operate limited commercial self-driving car services in cities across the state. The announcement is expected to be part of her annual State of the State address on Tuesday, according to her office.
The proposed legislation aims to create a path for companies to operate commercial robotaxi services, similar to those seen in San Francisco and Las Vegas, which is currently not possible under New York's stringent autonomous vehicle laws. Existing regulations require companies testing autonomous vehicles in the state to have a driver behind the wheel at all times.
Pilot robotaxi programs would require companies to submit applications demonstrating local support for their technology's deployment and robust safety records. The program would exclude New York City.
New York has been notably cautious regarding autonomous vehicles, unlike other states where companies like Alphabet's Waymo, Amazon's Zoox, and Tesla have been gradually expanding their self-driving car services. The state's current laws are among the strictest in the nation.
The governor's office believes this program will make roads safer.
The new legislation could have a significant impact on the autonomous vehicle industry, potentially opening up a major market for companies developing self-driving technology. The move signals a shift in New York's approach to autonomous vehicles, potentially positioning the state as a future hub for the industry.
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