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HB 986

Motor vehicles; personal delivery devices; revise operation procedures and restrictions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carter Barrett and 4 co-sponsors

HB 986 modifies Georgia's rules for autonomous delivery robots, adjusting operational procedures and restrictions for personal delivery devices on public roadways.

Act 442
#motorvehiclesandtraffic
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 986

Legislative bill overview

HB 986 revises Georgia's operational procedures and restrictions governing personal delivery devices (PDDs)—small autonomous robots used for package delivery. The bill modifies existing regulations to clarify how these devices can operate on public roads and sidewalks.

Why is this important

As autonomous delivery technology expands in Georgia, clear operational rules are essential to balance commercial innovation with public safety and pedestrian access. This legislation establishes the legal framework determining where PDDs can travel, speed limits, liability, and insurance requirements, directly affecting both the delivery industry and neighborhoods where these devices operate.

Potential points of contention

  • Sidewalk access and pedestrian safety: Whether PDDs should share sidewalks with pedestrians, and what safety standards apply if collisions or injuries occur
  • Local control vs. state preemption: Whether cities/counties can impose stricter rules than state law, or if the state mandate overrides local preferences
  • Liability and insurance requirements: Who bears financial responsibility if a PDD causes damage or injury, and whether current insurance frameworks adequately cover autonomous devices
  • Deployment limitations: Restrictions on operational hours, geographic zones, weather conditions, or device density that may limit business viability or concentrate devices in wealthier areas

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

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