WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 1848

An Act relative to the safety of autonomous vehicles

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jessica Giannino

Establishes safety regulations, testing requirements, and liability frameworks for autonomous vehicles operating in Massachusetts while addressing insurance and manufacturer accountability standards.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 1848

Legislative bill overview

HD 1848 establishes safety and regulatory requirements for autonomous vehicles (AVs) operating on Massachusetts roads. The bill creates a framework for testing, licensing, and operation of self-driving vehicles while establishing liability and insurance standards for manufacturers and operators.

Why is this important

As autonomous vehicle technology advances, states must determine how to balance innovation with public safety and liability concerns. This legislation directly affects how Massachusetts residents will interact with emerging transportation technology and who bears financial responsibility when autonomous vehicles are involved in accidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer liability vs. operator responsibility: Unclear delineation of who is liable when an autonomous vehicle causes injury or property damage—the vehicle owner, manufacturer, or software developer
  • Testing and safety standards: Determining what level of safety testing and validation is required before AVs can operate publicly, and whether Massachusetts standards align with federal guidelines
  • Data privacy and cybersecurity: Collection of vehicle data, passenger information, and road monitoring raises questions about surveillance, hacking vulnerabilities, and data ownership
  • Insurance requirements: Whether existing auto insurance models apply to autonomous vehicles and how insurance rates should be calculated
  • Equity and access: Potential concerns about whether AV regulations favor wealthy urban areas over rural regions, affecting transportation access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.