Texas House Bill HB808

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of photographic traffic signal enforcement systems.

Impact

The bill, if enacted, will amend Chapter 707 of the Transportation Code to prohibit local governments from implementing photographic traffic enforcement systems. It amends existing definitions related to these systems and explicitly states that non-law enforcement uses of such systems will no longer be valid under state law. The Attorney General is tasked with enforcing this prohibition, thereby centralizing authority and providing a clear legal framework regarding these enforcement mechanisms. The repeal of earlier law provisions that allowed for civil penalties from automated systems signifies a move towards stringent regulations against photographic enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 808 addresses the use of photographic traffic signal enforcement systems and establishes a prohibition on their implementation by various local entities such as counties, municipalities, and school districts. The bill is designed to protect citizens from being penalized based on images captured by automated systems that monitor traffic signals, fundamentally aiming to abolish the use of such photographic enforcement in jurisdictions under its control. This represents a significant shift in the legislative landscape regarding automated traffic enforcement mechanisms that have gained prominence in many areas across Texas.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB 808 reveal notable points of contention, particularly the balance between public safety and individual civil liberties. Proponents argue that the use of photographic systems infringes on the rights of drivers and often leads to unjust penalties based on technical errors or system malfunctions. Opponents or skeptics may warn that removing such enforcement systems could lead to increased traffic violations and compromise public safety on the roads. The enforcement exceptions for toll collection and law enforcement monitoring raises questions about the delineation of powers and the appropriateness of automated enforcement in specific contexts.