Virginia House Bill HB461

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24

Caption

Photo speed monitoring devices; pole-mounted speed display sign.

Impact

This legislation aims to enhance traffic safety around vulnerable zones such as schools and roadwork locations. By allowing law enforcement to utilize technology for monitoring speed compliance, it anticipates a decrease in negligent driving behavior, thereby potentially reducing accidents and fatalities associated with speed violations. Additionally, the bill preserves monetary penalties collected from these infractions, designating local authorities to receive fines from local law enforcement issued summonses, while funds from violations caught by state police contribute to the Literary Fund.

Summary

House Bill 461 establishes new provisions regarding the use of photo speed monitoring devices within school crossing zones and highway work zones in Virginia. The bill outlines that state or local law enforcement agencies are authorized to place and operate these devices to record speeding violations relevant to specific traffic laws. Notably, the bill details the nature of civil penalties for exceeding speed limits, which can reach up to $100 and requires that enforcement actions follow established traffic infraction procedures.

Contention

Among the key stipulated conditions, the bill imposes strict regulations on how data collected by photo speed monitoring devices may be utilized. It ensures that all photography and recordings are strictly controlled and not subject to public access, protecting the privacy of individuals. There are provisions for maintaining the integrity of evidence from these devices, which must be documented and purged following the stipulated timeframes. Potential concerns regarding the legality of automated speed enforcement and its implications on personal privacy and due process may arise as discussions around the bill progress.