Press Releases
06/27/2017
Gov. Malloy Signs Legislation Authorizing Manufacturers to Test Fully Autonomous Vehicles in Connecticut
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that he has signed into law legislation that will create a pilot program allowing manufacturers and fleet service providers to test fully autonomous vehicles in Connecticut. It establishes strict standards for testing under the program and requires participating municipalities to enter into agreements with autonomous vehicle testers.
“Signing this legislation into law will help put Connecticut at the forefront of a pioneering, burgeoning industry that by all accounts is pushing the future of innovation in this important sector of our economy,” said Governor Malloy. “We are showing this industry and those around the country that we promote the development of these kind of forward-thinking, technology-driven products in Connecticut. I refuse to let our state be outpaced as this technology grows.”
The Governor stressed that the final language in the adopted law includes specific qualifications on the testing of these vehicles, only allowing them be conducted through limited and controlled testing areas.
“America is undergoing a transportation technology revolution that is akin to the invention of the airplane or the automobile itself, and this new autonomous vehicles law will help ensure that Connecticut is a part of the far-reaching technological revolution to come,” said State Senator Carlo Leone (D-Stamford), the co-chairman of the Transportation Committee who has been a longtime proponent of this new technology. “I’ve spoken with business leaders, engineers, and organizations who want to be partners with Connecticut in the advancement of this new endeavor, while of course insuring public safety and public convenience aspects are met. This is a tremendous opportunity for Connecticut citizens and I applaud Governor Malloy for his quick realization on the possibilities ahead, and his support in making this legislation a reality.”
The legislation is Public Act 17-69, An Act Concerning Autonomous Vehicles. It was adopted in both chambers of the state legislature with broad, bipartisan support.
- Twitter: @GovMalloyOffice
- Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy