A new bill in South Dakota is set to pave the way for the regulation of autonomous vehicles in the state. The legislation, known as HB1095, recently received approval from state senators, voting 27-4 in favor of its implementation.
Currently, autonomous vehicles in South Dakota are considered legal, but they operate under the same rules as vehicles driven by humans. Republican Senator David Wheeler highlights the safety advantages of driverless vehicles, stating that they do not experience distractions or impairment, such as falling asleep or getting drunk. However, he also emphasizes the need for regulation, as the current lack of guidelines allows autonomous vehicles to operate without any specific rules.
While the bill has gained support, Senate Democratic leader Reynold Nesiba voiced concerns about the legislation. Nesiba argues that safety and security amendments are still necessary, particularly to ensure the smooth integration of autonomous vehicles with emergency services. He emphasizes that the bill is a commendable first step but believes it is not yet fully ready for implementation.
The bill was previously approved by the House of Representatives, with a final vote of 43-25. The recent passing of the Senate vote serves as the last legislative action required unless Governor Kristi Noem decides to veto it.
The question of safety and the capability of autonomous vehicles is a topic of debate among senators. Republican Senator David Johnson voted against the bill, citing various instances where autonomous vehicles have proven to be less safe than those driven by humans. He urges caution and highlights the importance of not assuming that autonomous vehicles are completely safe.
On the other hand, Republican Senator Steve Kolbeck supports the legislation, pointing to successful ride-sharing apps as evidence that autonomous vehicles can operate safely within specific frameworks. He argues that the bill levels the playing field, ensuring fair regulations for all vehicles on the road.
The new legislation in South Dakota marks an important step towards creating specific guidelines for the operation of autonomous vehicles. With safety and security concerns in focus, the bill aims to strike a balance between the potential benefits of driverless vehicles and the need for regulatory oversight.
FAQ on Autonomous Vehicle Regulation in South Dakota
1. What is the new bill in South Dakota about?
The new bill, known as HB1095, aims to regulate the operation of autonomous vehicles in the state.
2. Are autonomous vehicles currently legal in South Dakota?
Yes, autonomous vehicles are currently legal in South Dakota, but they operate under the same rules as vehicles driven by humans.
3. What is the purpose of the bill?
The bill aims to introduce specific rules and guidelines for the operation of autonomous vehicles to ensure safety and proper regulatory oversight.
4. What is the recent progress of the bill?
The bill recently received approval from state senators, with a 27-4 vote in favor of its implementation.
5. What are the safety advantages highlighted for autonomous vehicles?
Republican Senator David Wheeler emphasizes that autonomous vehicles do not experience distractions or impairment like falling asleep or getting drunk, making them potentially safer than human-driven vehicles.
6. Why is regulation necessary for autonomous vehicles?
Regulation is necessary because the current lack of guidelines allows autonomous vehicles to operate without specific rules.
7. Are there concerns about the legislation?
Senate Democratic leader Reynold Nesiba voiced concerns about the legislation, emphasizing the need for safety and security amendments to ensure the smooth integration of autonomous vehicles with emergency services.
8. Has the bill received support from the House of Representatives?
Yes, the bill was previously approved by the House of Representatives, with a final vote of 43-25.
9. What is the role of Governor Kristi Noem?
The recent passing of the Senate vote serves as the last legislative action required, unless Governor Kristi Noem decides to veto the bill.
10. Are there different opinions among senators regarding safety and capability of autonomous vehicles?
Yes, there are varying opinions among senators. Republican Senator David Johnson voted against the bill, expressing concerns about the safety of autonomous vehicles. However, Republican Senator Steve Kolbeck supports the legislation, citing successful ride-sharing apps as evidence of the safe operation of autonomous vehicles within specific frameworks.
Definitions:
– Autonomous vehicles: Vehicles capable of driving themselves without human intervention.
– Regulatory oversight: Government supervision and control to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.
– Veto: The power of a governing official to reject a bill and prevent it from becoming law.
Related Link:
South Dakota Cars for Hire Blog