Bill > S2344

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for municipalities in Massachusetts to use automated road safety camera systems to enforce traffic regulations. The legislation creates Chapter 90K of the General Laws, which defines four types of camera-enforceable violations: running a red light, prohibited right turns on red, speeding, and blocking intersections. Cities and towns can install these camera systems with approval from local government and permission from transportation authorities, with strict guidelines about camera placement and operation. The system imposes fines between $25 and $150 for violations, typically sent to the registered vehicle owner, but with several important exceptions such as stolen vehicles or emergency situations. The bill mandates significant privacy protections, requiring that photographs only capture rear views, be destroyed quickly, and not be used for purposes beyond traffic enforcement. Municipalities must conduct public awareness campaigns before implementing the systems and submit annual reports to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation detailing the safety impacts and implementation. Critically, the bill requires that camera system vendor compensation cannot be tied to the number of violations issued, and the Department of Transportation must review implementation plans with specific consideration of social and racial equity impacts. The legislation aims to improve traffic safety through technology while maintaining robust procedural protections for vehicle owners.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2344