AV Accessibility Act

This legislation, titled the "Autonomous Vehicle Accessibility Act," prohibits states from issuing motor vehicle operator's licenses for the operation or use of Level 4 or Level 5 ADS-equipped vehicles in a manner that discriminates against qualified individuals with disabilities. This prohibition aligns with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring that licensing practices for highly automated vehicles do not create barriers based on disability. The bill defines ADS-equipped vehicles and autonomy levels by reference to SAE International Recommended Practice J3016. Furthermore, the bill directs the Secretary of Transportation to seek an agreement with the National Academies to conduct a comprehensive study. This study will determine necessary changes to public transportation infrastructure to improve the ability of individuals with disabilities to find, access, and use ride-hail ADS-equipped vehicles , particularly during pickup and dropoff. It will also identify options to simplify safe access, considering technological solutions for dynamic curb management, sidewalk and roadway design, dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones, and other infrastructure factors. An appropriation of $5,000,000 is authorized to fund this critical study.