Bill > AB289

This bill authorizes the California Department of Transportation to establish a state highway work zone speed safety program that can use up to 35 speed safety systems (automated speed enforcement cameras) in highway construction and maintenance zones until January 1, 2032. The program will capture images of vehicle license plates of cars traveling 11 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit, with civil penalties ranging from $50 to $500 depending on the speed of the violation. The bill requires a 30-day public information campaign before implementation, with the first 60 days involving only warning notices. Speed safety systems must be clearly marked with signs, and the department must develop comprehensive guidelines for their use, consulting with stakeholder organizations. The program aims to improve worker safety in highway construction zones by deterring speeding, with all generated revenues deposited into a new Safe Highway Work Zone Account to fund program administration and enhanced traffic enforcement. The bill mandates detailed annual reporting to the Legislature about the program's impacts, including data on speeding violations, traffic collisions, and citations. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for indigent individuals to receive reduced fines and payment plans. The program is designed to complement, not replace, existing traffic enforcement efforts in highway work zones.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB289