Texas Senate Bill SB653

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the use of photographic traffic signal enforcement systems.

Impact

If enacted, SB653 would significantly alter local traffic enforcement practices across Texas. Local authorities, which often rely on these photographic systems to enhance traffic safety and compliance, would lose a major tool for monitoring and penalizing traffic violations. This could lead to changes in how local governments approach traffic safety and may result in increased traffic violations if alternate enforcement measures are not developed.

Summary

Senate Bill 653 seeks to prohibit the use of photographic traffic signal enforcement systems by local authorities in Texas. The primary objective of the bill is to eliminate the use of automated systems that capture images or videos of vehicles running red lights, thereby preventing the imposition of civil or criminal charges based on this photographic evidence. The bill proposes amendments to the Transportation Code to enforce this prohibition and designate the Attorney General as the enforcer of these new regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB653 appears to be mixed, with proponents arguing that the bill protects citizens from potentially flawed and unfair automated enforcement processes. Advocates suggest that the use of photographic enforcement systems can lead to unjust penalties and have a negative impact on community trust. Conversely, critics caution that removing these systems could compromise road safety and lead to higher accident rates, indicating a profound division in belief about effective traffic enforcement methods.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB653 revolve around concerns for public safety versus the rights and privacy of individuals. Supporters of the bill highlight issues related to due process, asserting that evidence derived from photographic systems is often accused of being misleading or inaccurately applied. On the other hand, opponents fear that the repeal of such enforcement mechanisms would result in increased violations of traffic laws and a potential rise in accidents, leading to serious implications for roadway safety.