New Proposed Legislation Would Let Self-Driving Cars Operate in New York State

New York: Governor Kathy Hochul wants to change the rules for self-driving cars. Right now, companies can only test their cars if a driver is inside. But soon, there might be new laws that let driverless cars operate in some parts of New York, except in New York City.

Hochul will share her proposal during her important speech. She hopes this will help communities by making travel safer and giving more choices for people. Companies will need to show they have local support and good safety records to be able to run tests.

If the new laws pass, it won’t be clear how companies will move from simple tests to offering full robotaxi services, like in other states. New York City has strict rules and doesn’t allow self-driving cars to operate without a driver. Currently, Waymo has a permit to test cars in some parts of the city.

Hochul’s proposal is exciting for companies that want to run self-driving services in big states like New York. Other places have clearer plans to help these companies start their services. Waymo, which already runs driverless cars in other cities, has even spent a lot to talk to New York officials about their plans.