Bill > SB1445

This bill expands the types of personnel who can certify evidence from traffic monitoring systems such as red light cameras, speed cameras, and traffic control device cameras in Virginia. Specifically, the bill allows retired sworn law enforcement officers and registered special conservators of the peace to swear to or affirm certificates of traffic violations, provided they complete a specific training course to be developed by the Department of Criminal Justice Services by July 1, 2026. The bill defines "retired sworn law enforcement officer" as an officer who retired honorably in good standing and was previously empowered to conduct investigations and make arrests. The new provisions will apply to monitoring systems used in school zones, highway work zones, intersections near schools, and other designated areas. By expanding the pool of personnel who can certify these violations, the bill aims to provide more flexibility for local jurisdictions in enforcing traffic laws through automated monitoring systems. The bill includes provisions to protect personal information collected by these systems and ensures that the training course will prepare these personnel to properly handle and certify evidence from traffic monitoring systems. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving the Department of Criminal Justice Services time to develop the required training course.