Louisiana Senate Bill SB171

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/12/10

Caption

Changes the name of the "Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Fund" and the disposition of monies collected for fines and penalties by local law enforcement for exceeding the posted speed limit by less than ten miles per hour.

Impact

If enacted, SB 171 would significantly alter the financial management of speed limit violation fines collected by local law enforcement. Previously, these fines would contribute to a commission fund for broader highway safety programs, whereas the new bill narrows the focus to specific expenditures related to radar speed displays. This change suggests a prioritization of certain highway safety measures over others, potentially impacting how local agencies allocate their resources and strategies towards highway safety enhancement.

Summary

Senate Bill 171, introduced by Senator N. Gautreaux, aims to amend existing traffic law regarding the disposition of fines for speed limit violations on Interstate highways. The bill proposes changing the name of the 'Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Fund' to the 'Louisiana Highway Safety Fund' and revises how penalties collected from local law enforcement for exceeding speed limits by less than ten miles per hour are managed. The legislation stipulates that these funds should now be directed solely to the Department of Transportation and Development for the implementation of permanent radar speed displays on interstate highways.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 171 reflects a generally supportive attitude from legislators concerned about highway safety and enforcement efficacy. However, there may be reservations regarding the implications for local control and the autonomy of local law enforcement agencies in managing their allotted resources effectively. Proponents likely view the bill as a reasonable step toward improving immediate response measures to speeding, while critics could argue it undermines localized approaches to traffic management.

Contention

A notable point of contention relates to the shift in funding, which some may perceive as centralizing control over fine allocations that local entities previously managed. While the intent is clear in improving highway safety through radar display installations, dissenting voices might argue that this top-down approach could stifle innovation at the local level in addressing unique traffic issues. The bill sets the stage for debates on balancing state-level mandates with the need for local agencies to utilize fines in ways that best serve their communities.