DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Danahay HB No. 896
Abstract: Prohibits the use of photo speed enforcement devices on state maintained roads
within the territorial or corporate limits of a municipality or parish.
Proposed law prohibits the use of automated speed enforcement devices by local municipal
authorities or local parish authorities on interstate roadways within their corporate or territorial
limits.
Proposed law excludes highway construction zones where construction workers are present and
work is being performed by the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) or a
private contractor with DOTD. However, prohibits the application of the exception to local
municipal authorities and local parish authorities regardless of whether they are performing
construction work.
Proposed law defines "automated speed enforcement device" as an unmanned or handheld
camera or optical device installed to work in conjunction with a traffic control signal or radar
speed detection equipment, or both, and designed to collect photographic evidence of alleged
traffic violations for the issuance of traffic citations by recording images that depict the license
plate or other identifying feature of a motor vehicle not in compliance with instruction of a traffic
control signal or posted traffic sign.
Proposed law prohibits any local municipal authority or local parish authority from imposing or
collecting any civil or criminal fine, fee, or penalty as a result of an image produced in violation
of proposed law on or after Jan. 1, 2015.
Requires any local municipal authority or local parish authority to discontinue use of automated
speed enforcement devices in violation of this Act by Jan. 1, 2015.
Effective upon signature of governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Adds R.S. 32:43)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill.
1. Authorizes the use of automated speed enforcement devices on interstate highways where DOTD or one of its contractor's is performing construction work.
2. Prohibits local municipal and parish authorities from using automated speed
enforcement devices on interstate highways regardless of whether the local authority
is performing construction work.