Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has officially signed a groundbreaking piece of legislation, commonly referred to as the "Jetsons Law," allowing for the use of flying cars on state roads. This makes Minnesota the second state in the United States, following New Hampshire's lead in 2020, to establish legal guidelines for these innovative vehicles.
The newly enacted law forms part of a comprehensive transportation bill that sets out the regulations for "roadable aircraft"—vehicles capable of both driving on roads and flying. These vehicles must comply with regular traffic laws when on the ground, akin to any conventional car, motorcycle, or truck. However, they are restricted from taking off or landing on public roads, except in emergencies.
“New 'Jetsons law' paves the way for flying cars from August 1 and will allow future aircraft to be classed as vehicles” https://t.co/5KhUE4OPEp
— Brian Roemmele (@BrianRoemmele) July 24, 2024
The primary aim of this legislation is to pave the way for the seamless integration of flying cars into daily transportation. The bill outlines a clear framework for registering these vehicles with the state, ensuring they adhere to the same safety and operational standards as other motor vehicles.
Companies like Samson Sky, developers of the Switchblade flying sports car, have been at the forefront, providing valuable input during the legislative process. The Switchblade is a hybrid electric/gas vehicle, capable of reaching speeds of 125 MPH on the ground and a range of 500 miles on a single tank of gas.
People in 80's: In 40 years we have flying cars!
2024: pic.twitter.com/IWR8Dp365y— Shitposts From Hell (@A_Glass_Of_Sand) July 16, 2024
State Senator John Jasinski, who has been a vocal proponent of the bill, mentioned the potential for flying cars to become a reality as early as 2025, though some experts consider this timeline optimistic.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) retains authority over the flying aspects, while state regulations govern their operation on the roads.
The introduction of flying cars represents a significant step toward the future of transportation, blending the convenience of road travel with the speed and flexibility of flight. This legislation marks a forward-thinking approach by Minnesota, positioning the state at the forefront of technological advancements in personal transportation.
Minnesota’s new law is a visionary move, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to adapt legal frameworks to accommodate emerging technologies. As the transportation landscape evolves, laws like the "Jetsons Law" ensure that regulatory measures keep pace with innovation, setting the stage for a new era of mobility.
