California regulators have proposed new regulations to allow the testing of self-driving heavy-duty trucks on public roads, marking a significant shift in policy as California is currently the only state that explicitly bans such testing. The proposal includes vehicles over 10,001 pounds, enabling companies to test autonomous commercial semi-trucks, a practice already underway in other states like Texas, Arizona, and Arkansas. Although the proposal is open for public comment until June, it is expected to face opposition from labor unions representing truck drivers, who are concerned about safety and job losses due to automation. A legislative attempt to mandate human drivers aboard these trucks was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom, who deemed existing self-driving regulations adequate. The proposed regulations also seek to enhance data-reporting requirements and provide the DMV with more authority to enforce rules through incremental measures rather than outright suspension of testing permits.

California's Department of Motor Vehicles announced proposed regulations to allow the testing of self-driving vehicles over 10,001 pounds on public roads, which could lead to the testing of autonomous semi-trucks in the state.

California is currently unique in explicitly banning the testing of self-driving heavy-duty trucks, while other states like Texas, Arizona, and Arkansas have already begun such testing.

The proposal will undergo a public comment period ending in June, during which it is anticipated to face resistance from labor unions concerned about potential job losses and safety issues.

Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a 2023 bill that would have required human drivers to be present in self-driving trucks, arguing that existing regulations were sufficient to address safety concerns.

The new regulations aim to improve data-reporting requirements, including incidents where autonomous vehicles stop unexpectedly and need retrieval from active roadways.

The proposal seeks to empower the DMV with the ability to apply 'incremental enforcement measures' against companies, allowing for more flexible oversight rather than just suspending testing permits.

These proposed changes reflect California's evolving stance on autonomous vehicle technology, balancing innovation with safety and regulatory oversight challenges.