The bill introduced by Senator Patton seeks to regulate companies involved in the sale, installation, and management of traffic law photo-monitoring devices in Ohio. It establishes a licensing requirement for these companies, mandating that no individual or entity can operate as a traffic camera dealer without obtaining a license, which includes a substantial application fee of $100,000 per device. The legislation also imposes a new eight percent tax on the gross receipts from municipal contracts related to traffic camera revenue, with the proceeds aimed at funding post-traumatic stress disorder treatment services for public safety officers. Additionally, the bill modifies existing tax-related provisions to include references to this new tax and ensures that no municipal corporation can levy similar taxes.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement regarding traffic violations detected by photo-monitoring devices, including the issuance of tickets to registered vehicle owners and the maintenance of device accuracy through testing and calibration. It also establishes procedures for tax refunds, requiring the tax commissioner to notify taxpayers of eligible credit account balances and allowing for refunds of overpaid taxes within four years. The bill includes penalties for non-compliance with licensing and operational requirements, as well as provisions for record-keeping and the imposition of fines for fraudulent claims. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance oversight and accountability in the operation of traffic enforcement technologies while streamlining tax administration related to these devices.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 131.02, 715.013, 4303.26, 4501.06, 4511.092, 4511.096, 4511.0911, 5703.052, 5703.053, 5703.19, 5703.263, 5703.50, 5703.70, 5703.77