Operational Policy 20 - Autonomous Vehicle Program

Operational policy 20 was voted on in the Enforcement and Industry Modernization Committee. This policy needs further discussion to address several key factors related to enforcement along with stronger checks and balances. The current policy does not allow for law enforcement to adequately inspect these vehicles on a regular basis, instead relies on industry to regulate themselves.

While operational policy 20 will currently only affect a few states where these vehicles are operating, the membership needs to address this issue with a long-term solution. As the technology evolves and becomes more readily available to everyday carriers this policy may lead to gaps in enforcement that could have severe public safety consequences.

Clarification regarding inspection procedures, possibly a new inspection procedure for law enforcement regarding autonomous heavy-duty vehicles. Funding discussion of the CVSA Vehicle Inspection Program Repository (VIPR), are members paying for this and if so, how will this affect membership fees? Discussion regarding the bypassing of inspection facilities. Bypass rates and eligibility should be at the discretion or statutory requirements of the jurisdiction. Further discussion regarding the utilizing of industry-maintained scales for the size and weight report required by FHWA. These are just a few of the items that California has issues with regarding Operational Policy 20.