Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB567

Introduced
1/13/22  
Refer
1/13/22  
Engrossed
2/3/22  
Refer
2/11/22  
Enrolled
2/24/22  

Caption

Radar; revise population threshold for municipal law enforcement to use on public streets of municipality.

Impact

The revision signifies a notable shift in the scope of enforcement capabilities for municipalities in Mississippi. By lowering the population requirements for radar use, smaller communities will now have the authority to implement traffic control measures that can potentially reduce speeding and improve overall road safety. This decentralization of authority may lead to greater local governance over traffic enforcement, empowering communities to respond to their specific public safety needs rather than being restricted by state law.

Summary

House Bill 567 proposes amendments to Section 63-3-519 of the Mississippi Code to revise the population thresholds that allow municipal law enforcement officers to use radar speed detection equipment on public streets. The bill permits these officers to use radar in municipalities with a population of 2,000 or more, while also establishing a lower threshold of 1,500 residents for cities that wish to utilize such equipment. This legislative change aims to enhance public safety by allowing local authorities to enforce traffic regulations more effectively in a broader range of communities.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment regarding HB 567 appears to be supportive, particularly among local law enforcement and community leaders who advocate for improved traffic monitoring as a means to enhance public safety. There is a recognition that smaller municipalities often struggle with traffic violations and the bill is seen as a tool that can help mitigate these issues. However, there may be cautious opposition from civil rights advocates who worry about the implications of increased surveillance and the potential for over-policing in smaller communities.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 567 could arise from discussions on the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Critics may argue that increased radar usage, especially in small towns, could lead to aggressive policing tactics and financial burdens on residents through ticketing. Additionally, the bill’s effectiveness in reducing speeding or enhancing safety may be scrutinized, particularly in relation to differing community contexts and their specific traffic patterns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2001

Transportation; revise population threshold for radar use on public streets of municipalities to 1500.

MS HB901

Radar; authorize use of by municipal law enforcement officers in certain municipalities with a population in excess of 7,000 on federal highways therein.

MS HB454

Radar; authorize use by municipal law enforcement officers in certain municipalities.

MS HB920

Radar; clarify how population is calculated.

MS HB1002

Radar; authorize DPS to authorize CTED law enforcement officers to use on public roadways for commercial vehicles.

MS HB1037

Radar; authorize DPS to authorize CTED law enforcement officers to use on public roadways for commercial vehicles.

MS SB2868

Radar; authorize limited use of by sheriffs.

MS SB2869

Radar; authorize limited use of by sheriffs.

MS SB2300

Radar; authorize limited use of by sheriffs.

MS HB557

Radar; authorize sheriff and deputies to use on county roads to enforce speed limits.

Similar Bills

MS SB2003

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2154

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2009

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2012

State highway system; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in.

MS HB1008

Highways; revise Mississippi Highway 615 in Harrison County.

MS SB2493

State highway system; revise designation for Mississippi Highway 615 in Harrison County.

MS SB2715

Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science; relocate to the campus of Mississippi State University.

MS HB1131

2024 Local Improvements Project Fund; clarify and correct names and purposes of certain.