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HB 1168

Motor Vehicles - As introduced, excludes automated driving system (ADS)-operated vehicles used to transport property for hire in interstate commerce or to transport passengers for hire from the exemption allowing ADS-operated vehicles to be operated without a human driver physically present. - Amends TCA Title 55 and Title 65.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Greg Vital

Tennessee bill restricts commercial autonomous vehicle operations for hire, requiring human drivers for interstate freight and passenger transport while potentially allowing autonomous operation in other contexts.

Rec. for pass. if am., ref. to Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1168

Legislative bill overview

HB 1168 would amend Tennessee law to remove the exemption that allows automated driving system (ADS)-operated vehicles to operate without a human driver for commercial purposes—specifically excluding for-hire transportation of both passengers and property in interstate commerce from current ADS operating permissions. This creates a carve-out that requires human operators for commercial autonomous vehicle services while potentially allowing autonomous operation for other uses.

Why is this important

This bill directly addresses the emerging autonomous vehicle (AV) industry by restricting commercial deployment of fully autonomous vehicles in Tennessee, even as federal regulators and other states move toward permitting autonomous trucking and rideshare services. The decision affects economic competitiveness for autonomous freight and passenger services, labor implications for drivers, and interstate commerce logistics during a period of rapid AV technology development.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact vs. safety concerns: Restricting commercial ADS operations may protect current driver employment but could disadvantage Tennessee-based logistics companies competing against states allowing autonomous freight
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language around "interstate commerce" may create conflicts with federal transportation authority and ambiguity about what qualifies as in-state versus interstate operations
  • Technology timing: The restriction may become outdated quickly if federal safety standards for autonomous vehicles advance, potentially leaving Tennessee with stranded legislation that conflicts with national standards

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

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