Autonomous vehicles.

Senator Archuleta's autonomous vehicle legislation introduces new visual identification requirements and environmental standards for California's self-driving cars, marking a significant update to the state's regulatory framework. The measure permits autonomous vehicles to be equipped with Automated Driving System (ADS) marker lamps starting January 1, 2026, providing a clear visual indication when vehicles are operating in autonomous mode.

The bill maintains existing safety protocols while adding new manufacturer obligations. Autonomous vehicle operators must continue holding appropriate licenses and maintaining $5 million in insurance coverage. Manufacturers must certify their vehicles include mechanisms for driver takeover, internal status displays, and systems to safely manage technology failures. The legislation also requires manufacturers to capture and store autonomous technology sensor data for 30 seconds before any collision, preserving this information for three years.

Looking ahead, the measure establishes that by 2030, new autonomous vehicles under 8,501 pounds must be zero-emission vehicles to receive deployment permits. The Department of Motor Vehicles retains authority to develop implementing regulations, though rulemaking for the zero-emission requirement cannot begin before 2027. Federal regulations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continue to take precedence when conflicts with state requirements arise.