The government needs to be removing ALL red tape when it comes to testing new technologies. These companies need to have full reign over how they test these things.
If you think this seems extreme and that some regulation is needed, look no further than the regulations that have arisen for Uber drivers. As soon as the government decided to get involved they've "taxed" these people and extraordinary amount in order to level the playing field between them and the taxi companies.
California legislators should realize that they are at the mercy of the tech industry, not the other way around.
I agree that it should be made easier for revolutionary technology to flourish but at the same time it should be ensured that nobody's lives are put at risk.
I think the stakes are high enough that the company(s) will take this burden upon themselves.