Automated-vehicle bill stalls as lawmakers press for more safeguards on safety, accessibility and labor impacts

House File 3513, an updated bill on automated/connected vehicles and the DE2 committee amendment, prompted an extended committee debate on March 18 about how Minnesota should permit and regulate automated vehicles (AVs).

Sponsor remarks described compromises in DE2: a 10,000-pound weight limit to target passenger-type AVs rather than heavy trucks, provisions intended to improve wheelchair-access referrals where a fully accessible vehicle may not be feasible, and third-party testing and options around self-certification. The DE2 text also included studies on labor impacts, congestion and safety metrics.

Thomas Johnson Kaiser of MnDOT told the committee the DE2 amendment better aligns with recommendations from the governor's council on connected and automated vehicles but noted remaining differences.

Several members urged further safeguards. Representative Tapke said the bill "cannot leave transportation until we have set up an intermediate step" and expressed concern about permitting fully driverless operation without transitional steps or stronger reporting. Representative Sensamura raised problems with vehicles parking or circulating in public rights-of-way (she noted industry presence in Minneapolis and concerns about congestion and vehicles "idling around"). Representative Lugar Nikolai asked for clearer planning to address worker displacement and workforce transition for those whose jobs may be affected.

Supporters warned overregulation could drive industry away; sponsors argued that Minnesota should offer clear guidelines to allow innovation while protecting safety. The author summarized that the DE2 amendment includes many compromises — weight limits, accessibility referrals, and provisions for U.S.-based remote support — but members remained divided.

A roll-call on the sponsor's motion to send HF3513, as amended, to the Public Safety Committee found eight yeas and seven nays; the motion did not prevail and HF3513 did not advance to Public Safety at this meeting. Sponsors and opponents said they will continue negotiations and consider additional amendments in follow-up committee sessions.