The bill H. 5600 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the enforcement of traffic violations through the use of traffic-control photographic systems. It authorizes local governing bodies to adopt ordinances for civil enforcement of traffic violations using these systems, which capture recorded images of vehicles violating traffic signals. The bill establishes that municipal courts will have jurisdiction over violations cited under this new section, and it outlines the process for issuing citations, including the requirement for agencies to mail citations to vehicle owners within a week of the violation. The bill also specifies that fines for these violations cannot exceed $100 and that no court costs or points will be assessed against the driver's record.

Additionally, the bill amends several existing sections of the South Carolina Code, including provisions related to the powers of local authorities and the issuance of traffic tickets. It clarifies that local authorities may adopt ordinances for civil enforcement using photographic systems and modifies the definition of traffic-control signals to include the requirement for vehicles to slow down when facing a yellow signal. The bill also allows for certain defenses in court regarding the issuance of citations, such as if the vehicle was stolen or if the driver was not operating the vehicle at the time of the violation. Overall, the bill seeks to improve traffic safety and enforcement efficiency in South Carolina.

Statutes affected:
04/28/2026: 56-5-830, 14-25-45, 56-5-710, 56-5-970, 56-7-35
Latest Version: 56-5-830, 14-25-45, 56-5-710, 56-5-970, 56-7-35