The city of Minneapolis is considering a new ordinance that would impose strict requirements on autonomous vehicle (AV) companies operating within its jurisdiction. Under the proposed rules, any driverless car would be required to have a paid human "safety monitor" stationed in the driver's seat at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

Proponents of the measure suggest that this requirement is a necessary precaution to ensure public safety and provide an immediate human response in the event of a technical malfunction or unexpected road condition. By mandating a human presence, the city seeks to mitigate the risks associated with fully automated systems that may not yet be fully capable of handling complex urban traffic environments.

While the proposal focuses on safety, it represents a significant regulatory hurdle for AV companies that are currently pushing for the deployment of fully driverless fleets without human intervention. The ordinance reflects a broader national debate regarding the balance between fostering technological innovation and maintaining strict safety standards for public infrastructure. As of now, the proposal remains under consideration, and city officials are expected to weigh the potential impact on the local tech industry against the city's commitment to traffic safety.