A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT to direct the division of motor vehicles to study how to implement autonomous vehicle technology on the roads and highways of this state, as recommended by the department of transportation.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  Definition. – The term "autonomous vehicle" means a vehicle capable of operating in a full automation mode where full automation is defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers standard, J3016, section 5.6, issued January 2014, as the unconditional, full‑time performance by an automated driving system of all aspects of the dynamic driving task under, at minimum, all roadway and environmental conditions that can be managed by a human driver, including the ability to automatically bring the vehicle into a minimal risk condition in the event of a critical vehicle or system failure or other emergency event.
SECTION 2.  Study. – The Division of Motor Vehicles, in collaboration with other interested stakeholders identified by the Division, shall study how to implement autonomous vehicle technology on the roads and highways of this State. In conducting the study under this act, the Division shall consider all of the following:
(1)	The measures necessary to successfully implement autonomous vehicle technology, including any legislative changes.
(2)	Complications or liabilities that could arise by allowing autonomous vehicle technology.
(3)	How autonomous vehicle technology can promote research and development in this State.
(4)	Any other matters the Division deems relevant.
SECTION 3.  Report. – The Department shall report its findings and recommendations, including any legislative proposals, to the Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee no later than February 1, 2016.
SECTION 4.  Effective Date. – This act is effective when it becomes law.