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(Des Moines, IA) -- Iowa lawmakers are weighing a bill to tighten rules on driverless vehicles. House File 2375 would require a licensed human driver in commercial self‑driving cars. Opponents say the proposed rules are ambiguous.
“We think there’s some vagueness in this section. We talk about ‘must have to monitor the vehicle, the operation, and if necessary intervene.’ Who determines what is necessary? We do not believe this is the proper role of the state, the feds will regulate this,” said Mike Triplett, lobbyist for the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
Lawmakers agree regulations are needed but say they want to explore the issue further.
“When it comes to human lives, especially when it comes to kids, I’m just not comfortable, and so I’d like to see this move forward and have a bigger conversation on how we can make sure everybody is safe,” said Representative Megan Jones, Transportation Committee chair.
The bill must be approved by committee before advancing for a vote.