House Bill No. 652 seeks to regulate the use of automated speed enforcement devices by local authorities in Louisiana, specifically prohibiting their installation on state highways and interstate roadways. The bill mandates that any such device must capture photographic evidence of the driver to impose penalties, and starting January 1, 2025, local authorities will be barred from imposing fines based on images that violate these new provisions. Additionally, the legislation requires visible signage to indicate the presence of these devices and introduces specific regulations for their operation in school zones, allowing usage only during hours when children are present. Revenue from citations in school zones must be shared between local governing authorities and schools, contingent upon a cooperative agreement.

The bill also establishes an administrative hearing process for motorists to appeal citations issued by mail, ensuring transparency and fairness in traffic law enforcement. It prohibits local municipalities from using agents or contractors to operate video recording equipment for traffic citations and ensures that local ordinances cannot override the provisions of this law unless they completely ban electronic enforcement devices. Furthermore, the legislation includes an attestation clause on citations for drivers to contest vehicle ownership at the time of the violation and clarifies that citations issued cannot be classified as criminal convictions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and safety in traffic enforcement while providing clear guidelines for the use of automated devices.

Statutes affected:
HB652 Original: 32:43(B), 32:44(A)
HB652 Engrossed: 32:43(A)(1), 32:44(A)
HB652 Reengrossed: 32:43(A)(1), 32:44(A), 32:365(B)