Automated license plate recognition systems; prohibit use of in the state subject to certain exceptions.
The implementation of HB 528 would significantly alter how traffic laws are enforced within Mississippi, shifting the responsibility solely to law enforcement officers. This move has the potential to impact public safety measures, created to monitor and regulate traffic compliance proactively and efficiently. By eliminating automated systems, the state may see challenges in enforcing traffic laws consistently, potentially resulting in increased traffic violations and accidents.
House Bill 528 proposes to amend the Mississippi Code by prohibiting the use of automated recording equipment and automated license plate recognition systems for enforcing traffic laws, including compliance with traffic signals and speed limits. This law specifies that only sworn law enforcement officers are permitted to enforce traffic regulations on public roadways, effectively eliminating automated enforcement systems in the state. The bill mandates that any local jurisdictions currently using such systems must remove them by July 1, 2025.
The bill has elicited mixed reactions among legislators and the public. Supporters argue that reliance on human oversight will foster more equitable enforcement of traffic laws, rather than relying on automated systems that may lead to erroneous violations or penalties. Critics, however, fear that removing automated enforcement measures could diminish the effectiveness of traffic law enforcement, leading to lax compliance with safety measures on roadways. The debate ultimately revolves around balancing public safety with the principles of lawful enforcement and preventing civil liberties infringements.