California law requires local robotaxi support and permits obstruction fines

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1246, requiring autonomous vehicle companies to provide local technicians for accidents and obstructions, TechCrunch reported. Operators can face fines when a vehicle blocks emergency responders for more than 30 minutes. The law also requires companies to notify local jurisdictions of vehicle locations and status during system-wide failures. Remote drivers who directly operate vehicles must be based in the United States and hold a U.S. driver's license; that category differs from staff who provide guidance while the self-driving system retains control. The law takes effect in July 2028. California's Department of Motor Vehicles will set guidelines, including required response times.