Bill > S05676

This bill authorizes the city of Schenectady to establish a demonstration program for traffic signal photo enforcement, allowing the city to install and operate monitoring devices at up to 12 intersections. Under this program, vehicle owners can be held financially responsible for traffic signal violations captured by these systems, with a maximum fine of $50 per violation and an additional $25 for failing to respond to a notice of liability. The bill includes several important provisions: the technology must attempt to avoid capturing images of drivers or passengers, the violation will not be considered a criminal conviction or affect insurance records, and owners have defenses available (such as reporting the vehicle stolen). Vehicle owners who were not driving can seek indemnification from the actual driver, and there's a presumption that the owner consented to the vehicle's use. The city must submit annual reports detailing the program's impact, including information about accident rates, violations, and revenue. The program is set to expire on December 1, 2030, and the bill also amends public officers law to allow these photographic records to be considered public records. The goal appears to be improving traffic safety through automated enforcement while providing protections for vehicle owners.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5676