Pennsylvania House Bill HB1284

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/31/23
• Refer: 5/31/23
• Refer: 6/12/23
• Report Pass: 6/21/23
• Refer: 6/22/23
• Report Pass: 6/26/23
• Engrossed: 6/26/23
• Refer: 6/30/23
• Refer: 10/25/23
• Report Pass: 12/12/23
• Refer: 12/13/23
• Report Pass: 12/13/23
• Enrolled: 12/14/23
• Chaptered: 12/14/23
• Passed: 12/14/23

Caption

In rules of the road in general, further providing for automated enforcement of failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights, for automated speed enforcement systems in active work zones and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement system on designated highway and providing for automated speed enforcement study and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement systems in designated school zones; and imposing a penalty.

Impact

The legislation has significant implications for state traffic laws by allowing local authorities to adopt and enforce automated speed enforcement systems in designated highway areas and school zones. It's designed to create a safer environment for students while ensuring compliance with existing traffic laws. The bill outlines a pilot program for automated enforcement systems on specific highways, with the goal of reducing speed-related incidents and enhancing overall safety in active work zones.

Summary

House Bill 1284 focuses on enhancing traffic safety in Pennsylvania through the implementation of automated enforcement systems, particularly concerning school bus safety and speeding violations in active work zones. The bill amends Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to authorize the installation and operation of side stop signal arm enforcement systems on school buses. This initiative aims to increase the enforcement of laws requiring drivers to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights, thereby helping to protect children during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1284 appears to be largely supportive among proponents who emphasize the necessity for enhanced safety measures to protect children and improve traffic compliance. Advocates claim that automated systems will help reduce violations of laws designed to ensure the safety of school children. However, concerns have been raised by critics about the potential for overreach, the prioritization of enforcement over education, and the implications for drivers' rights, leading to calls for additional oversight of how the technology is implemented.

Contention

Among the notable points of contention is the debate about the reliance on automated systems for enforcing traffic violations, which some believe may lead to issues related to privacy and fairness. Additionally, there are concerns over how fines will be distributed and the potential for municipalities to become overly reliant on revenue generated from these violations, which could create perverse incentives for enforcement rather than primarily focusing on safety improvements.