Maine regulates self-driving cars primarily through an Autonomous Vehicle Pilot Project Program established by legislation enacted in 2018. This program allows for the testing, demonstration, and deployment of autonomous vehicles on public roads in the state, subject to a formal application and authorization process overseen by a Commission on Autonomous Vehicles. The regulation focuses on ensuring the safe and lawful conduct of autonomous vehicle pilot projects, including requirements for data reporting, crash reporting, and potential suspension of testing authorizations if necessary.
Regarding drones, specific regulations in Maine are generally aligned with federal rules governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the state may have additional requirements, but these are typically less developed or publicized than autonomous vehicle rules. Maine’s primary focus in new technology regulation has been on autonomous vehicles, with a structured commission and rule set aimed at safely integrating these vehicles onto public roadways.
Key points for Maine’s self-driving car regulations include:
- Establishment of a Commission on Autonomous Vehicles responsible for overseeing applications and safety compliance.
- Rules enacted to authorize testing and pilot projects for autonomous vehicles.
- Requirements to report data and crashes related to autonomous vehicle operations.
- Safety measures to suspend or revoke pilot program participation if rules are violated.
For drones, Maine generally follows federal guidelines, focusing more on airspace regulation and safe operation without a highly specific state-level regulatory regime comparable to that for autonomous vehicles at this time.
This structured approach indicates Maine is actively regulating self-driving cars through pilot projects and oversight but is less prominently regulating drones beyond established federal frameworks.
SOURCES
[1](https://regulations.justia.com/states/maine/17/229/chapter-800/)
[2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-driving_car)
[3](https://www.autosinnovate.org/posts/press-release/challenges-to-maine-data-law)
[4](https://appinventiv.com/blog/ai-in-self-driving-cars/)
[5](https://www.maineturnpike.com/getattachment/cea03341-84e4-49b6-9ffd-359c710c495b/01-Autononmous-Vehicles-Working-Paper-1_DRAFT.pdf?lang=en-US)
