The proposed "Rhode Island Pedestrian Safety Act" establishes a framework for municipalities to utilize automated road safety monitoring systems to enhance traffic safety, particularly in designated areas such as school zones, hospital zones, work zones, and other locations deemed to have high pedestrian safety concerns. The bill defines key terms related to traffic violations, including "automated road safety monitoring system" and "camera enforceable violation," which encompasses offenses such as stopping at stop signs, stopping at intersections or crosswalks, and failing to yield to pedestrians.

Municipalities are empowered to adopt ordinances authorizing the use of these systems, impose a civil fine of $50 for violations, and manage the issuance and collection of citations through a municipal agent. The legislation allows law enforcement officers to issue traffic violation notices independently and requires municipalities to conduct public awareness campaigns regarding the use of automated road safety monitoring systems.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect the privacy of individuals by ensuring that photographs and personal identifying information collected through these monitoring systems are not classified as public records. It mandates that any revenue generated from the automated systems be directed towards funding road safety projects aimed at reducing injuries and fatalities among vulnerable road users, including individuals with disabilities. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.