Kentucky Governor Vetoes AV Legislation
For the second year in a row, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (D) has vetoed a bill passed by the legislature that would have allowed autonomous vehicles to operate on the roads in the state. The State House passed the bill - HB 7 - on a 61-31 vote, while the State Senate passed it by a narrower 20-18 vote. The senate's close margin indicates that a veto override is highly unlikely.
Roadway safety underscored Gov. Beshear's explanation for his veto. He pointed specifically to provisions that would allow AVs to operate without a backup human driver in the vehicle. ASA also notes that the legislation lacked any provision pertaining to vehicle safety inspection requirements.