Bill > HB2526

This bill, titled "In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, providing for automated litter enforcement systems in public rights-of-way and highways; and imposing penalties," amends Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to allow for the use of automated litter enforcement systems, which are camera systems designed to capture images of vehicles littering in designated "litter enforcement zones" along public roads and highways. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, or municipalities can establish and use these systems, with specific authorization requirements for each entity. Municipalities must enact local ordinances, provide policy statements to PennDOT, and receive approval before deploying these systems, though an exception exists if the state or Turnpike Commission authorizes a system in a zone that includes both state and local roads. The bill mandates clear signage to warn drivers about the presence of these systems. Violations captured by these systems will result in a $200 fine for the vehicle owner, which is not considered a criminal conviction and will not affect driving records or insurance rates. The bill outlines detailed procedures for issuing notices of violation, including requirements for system calibration, operator training, and the content of the notice itself, which must include photographic evidence and verification of system operation. It also establishes defenses against violations, such as the vehicle being reported stolen. Revenue generated from fines will be distributed to primary police departments that review violations, with remaining funds used by municipalities for litter cleanup and abatement, or deposited into restricted accounts for the department and commission to cover administrative costs and system administrator invoices. The bill defines key terms like "automated litter enforcement system," "commission" (referring to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission), and "municipality."