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Tomes authors bill to keep drivers safe on Indiana roadways

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Samantha Deese, Press Secretary

Samantha.Deese@iga.in.gov
317-234-9133

Tomes authors bill to keep drivers safe on Indiana roadways

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 10, 2024) – State Sen. Jim Tomes (R-Wadesville) recently filed a bill that would add certain requirements to automated vehicles to keep Hoosiers safe on our roadways.

"With new technology on the horizon and more self-driving vehicles being used on our roadways, it is important our laws reflect these changes to keep Hoosiers safe," Tomes said. "Driverless vehicles, especially large trucks, could pose a danger on our public roads if not monitored properly."

Senate Bill 57 would require a qualified human operator to be physically present within an automated commercial vehicle if it is being used to transport passengers or goods. The operator must be able to take control of the vehicle if necessary.

"As a former Teamster, I know all too well the power of large transportation vehicles," Tomes said. "Unfortunately, this bill won't receive a hearing this session, but I will continue working to bring this policy forward again in the future. I am glad to have raised public awareness of this issue by authoring this bill."

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State Sen. Jim Tomes (R-Wadesville) represents Senate District 49,
which includes Posey County and portions of Vanderburgh County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.