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H 3969

Personal Delivery Devices

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nathan Ballentine and 11 co-sponsors

H 3969 - Personal Delivery Devices OverviewBill Number: H 3969 Title: Personal Delivery Devices Status: Vetoed by Governor Introduced: March 31, 2025 Purpose and IntentThe purpo

Vetoed by Governor
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Bill Summary · H 3969

H 3969 - Personal Delivery Devices

Overview

Bill Number: H 3969
Title: Personal Delivery Devices
Status: Vetoed by Governor
Introduced: March 31, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of H 3969 is to establish a regulatory framework for the use of personal delivery devices (PDDs) - autonomous robots designed to transport goods locally. The bill aims to enable the safe and responsible deployment of this emerging technology, which proponents argue can improve last-mile delivery efficiency and accessibility.

Key Provisions

  • Defines PDDs as autonomous devices weighing less than 500 pounds, designed to transport property on sidewalks and crosswalks
  • Requires PDDs to be equipped with various safety features like lights, reflectors, audible warning systems, and the ability to automatically come to a stop
  • Allows PDDs to operate on sidewalks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian areas at a maximum speed of 12 mph
  • Mandates that PDDs yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and gives local governments authority to restrict or prohibit PDD use
  • Establishes registration, insurance, and operational requirements for PDD providers and users

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Consumers and businesses that could benefit from more efficient local delivery options
  • Pedestrians, cyclists, and other sidewalk/crosswalk users who may interact with PDDs
  • Local governments responsible for regulating and overseeing PDD operations in their jurisdictions
  • PDD manufacturers, operators, and delivery companies that would need to comply with the new rules

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

H 3969 was passed by the state legislature but subsequently vetoed by the Governor, who cited concerns about potential risks to public safety. The legislature may attempt to override the veto, but it is unclear if they have the necessary votes. If the bill does not become law, the use of PDDs will remain largely unregulated at the state level, leaving local governments to develop their own policies.

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

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