Legislation, sponsored by state Sen. Ryan P. Aument (R-Lancaster County), would establish rules for the operation of Personal Delivery Devices (PDDs), autonomous robots that deliver packages to consumers and businesses within an approximately three-mile radius.
Basic rules established in Senate Bill 1199 include requiring each robot to have a unique ID number, braking system, visible lights, and other features to enhance the visibility; requiring businesses operating PDDs employ a remote monitor who can control the device if necessary; limiting PDDs to the berm or shoulder of a roadway; and requiring PDDs obey the rules that govern pedestrian use of sidewalks.
The bill also establishes the application and renewal process; requires authorized entities to send a notice to a municipality before the initial operation of the PDD; allows the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to revoke a PDD authorization for a violation that resulted in serious bodily injury, death, or property damage; and creates a new penalty structure that increases fines for violations up to $1,000.
“From the outset, my goal with this bill was not only to create reasonable safety guidelines for this new technology but also to solicit feedback from constituents and stakeholders regarding the most effective way to do that,” Aument said.