Texas Senate Bill SB47

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

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.