AB 2193: Autonomous vehicles.

The bill aims to expand the use of autonomous vehicles on public roads. Currently, these vehicles can only be tested by a licensed driver who meets certain requirements. The bill would allow autonomous vehicles to operate without a licensed driver, but only after the manufacturer submits an application to the Department of Motor Vehicles and it is approved. If an autonomous vehicle commits a traffic violation, the registered owner will receive a citation if no one is in the driver's seat. However, if someone is in the driver's seat, the citation will be issued to that person, regardless of whether the autonomous technology is engaged. There is an exception for permitted passenger transport services, where the citation will be issued to the registered owner if the autonomous technology is engaged. The bill also allows citations to be issued by mail and provides procedures for contesting…