Georgia Senate Bill SB402

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/26/24
• Report Pass: 2/8/24
• Engrossed: 2/27/24
• Report Pass: 3/20/24

Caption

Instruction Permits; restrictions upon the operation of Class C motor vehicles by Class D license holders with certain passengers in the vehicle; revise

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to enhance school zone safety by making it clear that additional fines cannot be levied beyond the established civil monetary penalties. This aims to prevent law enforcement agencies from over-reliance on speeding fines for revenue generation, which has been a concern in many jurisdictions. By doing so, SB402 intends to redirect focus towards public safety rather than revenue collection, addressing a fine line that many law enforcement agencies face when utilizing automated devices for traffic enforcement.

Summary

SB402 aims to amend Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia to introduce stricter regulations regarding traffic violations related to school bus safety and speeding in school zones. This bill specifically focuses on the civil monetary penalties applicable for violations detected by automated traffic enforcement devices. It establishes set penalties for offenses captured on camera, namely $250 for improperly passing a school bus and a graduated penalty system for speeding in school zones, which starts at $75 for the first offense and increases to $125 for subsequent offenses, with additional processing fees that are capped at $25.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB402 appears to be supportive, especially among those advocating for enhanced safety measures in school zones. The bill's emphasis on limiting penalties to specific amounts is seen positively, as it may alleviate concerns about potential abuses of power by law enforcement regarding automated traffic enforcement. However, there is also contention surrounding the reduction in financial flexibility for municipalities to fund law enforcement activities, which some view as a potential hindrance to overall public safety efforts.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential interpretation and enforcement of automated traffic laws, particularly how law enforcement agencies will adapt to the new financial limitations imposed by SB402. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to protect citizens, it could simultaneously place financial strains on local law enforcement budgets that depend on revenue from traffic fines. The debate raises broader questions about the balance between effective law enforcement and the pressing need for public safety enhancements, with valid concerns from both proponents and opponents.