The Senate Committee on Economic Development and International Investment on Wednesday approved a package of bills aimed at modernizing guidelines for driverless vehicle research and operation within state law. Senate Bills 995-998 would update Michigan’s current laws regarding autonomous vehicle testing to allow “real world” testing and operation to determine the technology needed to safely introduce these vehicles into the marketplace.

The bills go on to specify that as technology emerges, companies will be able to operate a driverless vehicle on public roads so long as an operator is able to supervise and control the vehicle. The legislation also establishes standards that these vehicles must adhere to.

Additionally, the bills authorize the creation of the American Center for Mobility at the abandoned Willow Run facility. The repurposed 300-acre lot is expected to serve a vital role in Michigan’s research and development surrounding autonomous vehicles. The redevelopment is expected to be a boost for the economies of surrounding communities.

Leading technology and ridesharing companies are working with automakers to develop driverless technology. Seven other states along with Washington D.C. have a policy or have introduced a policy regarding autonomous vehicles, and the widespread message across the Senate panel as well as those who came to testify was that Michigan must remain a leader in the industry.

State Sen. Mike Kowall, sponsor of SBs 995 and 996, has remained at the forefront of legislative efforts pertaining to autonomous vehicles for some time. Kowall added that Michigan is on a fast track to get these bills passed and remain competitive with the rest of the nation.

SBs 995-998 were approved by the committee with bipartisan support and will now go before the full Senate for consideration.

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