Bill > S0664

This bill establishes the South Carolina Speed Safety Act, which allows local governmental agencies in municipalities with populations of 25,000 or more to use speed-safety systems (automated speed cameras) in school and construction zones. The bill defines key terms like "speed-safety system" as a device using lidar sensors to capture images of vehicles traveling at least 5 mph over the speed limit, and provides detailed regulations for their implementation. Agencies must provide public notice, install appropriate signage, and ensure speed-safety systems are properly calibrated and operated by trained personnel. Citations can be issued to vehicle owners, with a maximum civil penalty of $200, but these violations will not be considered moving violations, will not affect driving records, and cannot impact motor vehicle insurance. The systems can only operate Monday through Friday between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. in school zones, and owners have the right to contest citations through an administrative hearing process. Importantly, the bill includes provisions for challenging citations, such as if the vehicle was stolen or someone else was driving. The legislation is temporary, with all provisions set to be repealed on December 31, 2030, and requires agencies to submit a report analyzing the public safety and equity impacts of the speed-safety systems within three years of implementation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0664&session=126&summary=B