The bill, HB 778, aims to regulate the use of unmanned automated speed enforcement devices in school zones by prohibiting the imposition of penalties when drivers are not exceeding the posted speed limit immediately prior to the school zone, provided that school zone signs are not present at the entrance and exit. Additionally, the bill retains existing laws that prevent authorities from installing automated speed enforcement devices on interstate roadways and adds a provision that prohibits the use of such devices on equipment not located on state or local authority right-of-way.

The Conference Committee Report indicates that certain Senate amendments were adopted, including the technical changes and the prohibition of equipment not on a right-of-way from using electronic speed enforcement devices. However, other amendments that would have established a rebuttable presumption regarding the presence of school zone signs and addressed the use of wireless telecommunication devices by drivers were rejected. The proposed law maintains the current exceptions for construction zones under the Department of Transportation and Development, while reinforcing the restrictions on automated speed enforcement in school zones.

Statutes affected:
HB778 Enrolled: 32:43(A)(1)
HB778 Act 722: 32:43(A)(1)