SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6278

                    As of January 17, 2000

Title:  An act relating to regulating the use of traffic safety cameras.

Brief Description:  Regulating traffic safety cameras.

Sponsors:  Senators Haugen, Gardner, Horn and Costa.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  1/18/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jennifer Ziegler (786-7316)

Background:  No express statutory authority exists allowing local governments to use automated traffic enforcement systems, such as photo-radar, photo devices at stop lights, and photo devices at railroad crossings.  However, some local governments are currently using these systems.

Summary of Bill:  Express statutory authority is granted to local governments to authorize the use of automated traffic enforcement systems.  However, certain conditions apply when such systems are used.  Pictures may only be taken of vehicles and vehicle plates, and no identifiable person may appear in the photos.

When an automated traffic enforcement system is used, the notice of traffic infraction must be sent by mail, within 14 days of the infraction occurring, to the registered owner of the vehicle.  The registered owner is responsible for the infraction.  The traffic infraction is not part of the registered owner's driving record.

If the registered owner is a rental car business, the infraction is dismissed if the business mails the name and mailing address of the person renting the vehicle to the issuing agency within 14 days.

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission may adopt rules regarding the operational standards for traffic safety cameras, the placement of signs notifying drivers of the existence of traffic safety cameras, and recommendations on educating the public about traffic safety cameras.  By January 1, 2001, the commission must report to the Legislature regarding the use of traffic safety cameras in Washington.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 12, 2000.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.