Bill > H3074

This bill allows cities and towns in the Commonwealth to use traffic control signal violation monitoring systems, commonly known as red-light cameras, and electronic speed monitoring systems to improve traffic safety. These systems, which can be mobile or fixed, will capture images of vehicles that run red lights or exceed speed limits at intersections. The bill defines key terms like "local measure" (local ordinances for fines), "motor vehicle," "operator," "owner," and "traffic control signal violation monitoring system" (a device that takes at least two rear-facing photos of a vehicle violating a traffic signal, clearly showing the license plate). Owners of vehicles will be liable for penalties, which cannot exceed $100 per violation, unless the operator has already been convicted of the underlying offense. The bill also specifies that compensation for vendors of these systems cannot be based on the number of citations issued, and that photographs taken by these systems are only discoverable for proceedings related to the violation itself. A designated parking clerk in each city will oversee the administration of these violations, sending notices to owners and managing hearings for those who wish to contest a ticket. The bill outlines procedures for issuing notices, collecting fines, and handling appeals, and includes provisions for escalating penalties, including potential suspension of driver's licenses and vehicle registrations, for repeated offenses. It also states that penalties imposed under this act will not be considered criminal convictions and will not affect insurance rates. Finally, the bill mandates that photographic evidence be destroyed within one year of final disposition and requires the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to establish rules and regulations for the operation of these systems.