The "Highway Construction Zone Automated Speed Enforcement Act" authorizes the New Mexico Department of Transportation to implement automated speed detection devices in highway construction zones to identify and penalize speeding violations. The act establishes definitions for key terms, such as "automated speed detection device" and "automated traffic enforcement system," and outlines the responsibilities of the department, including the collection of evidence and the issuance of civil fines. Owners of vehicles found to be in violation are held strictly liable, and the act provides a framework for hearings to contest fines, including allowable defenses for vehicle owners.

Additionally, the act mandates the development of rules for the enforcement system, including the imposition of specific civil fines based on the degree of speed violation, ranging from $50 to $200. The fines collected will be appropriated to the bureau for the installation and maintenance of the enforcement system. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.