Relating to a study concerning enforcement of following distance laws in this state.
Impact
If passed, SB47 could lead to substantial changes in how following distance laws are enforced in the state. The implementation of the recommended enhancements could involve the integration of new technologies, such as laser or radar devices, that would help law enforcement officers more accurately measure the distance between vehicles in motion. This could improve public safety by potentially reducing the number of accidents caused by tailgating.
Summary
Senate Bill 47, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, focuses on the enforcement of following distance laws in Texas. The bill mandates the Department of Transportation to conduct a study assessing how effectively current enforcement measures deter violations of the following distance rules outlined in Section 545.062 of the Transportation Code. This initiative aims to gather critical data on the incidence of accidents and traffic violations resulting from insufficient following distance between vehicles.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, SB47 may face scrutiny regarding its implications on policing practices and the costs associated with adopting new technology for enforcement. There might also be concerns from civil liberties groups regarding surveillance and the use of automated enforcement technologies. The study's recommendations could spark debates on the balance between enhancing public safety and maintaining personal privacy on the roads.
Relating to requiring a school district or open-enrollment charter school to report data regarding certain disciplinary or law enforcement actions taken against students.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and law enforcement agencies regarding law enforcement officers and the use of body worn cameras; authorizing fees.
Relating to prohibiting a registered sex offender in certain circumstances from going within a certain distance of the residence of the victim of the offense for which the offender is subject to registration.
Relating to law enforcement misconduct and law enforcement interactions with certain detained or arrested individuals and other members of the public, to public entity liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.