Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 2270

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning signage for automated traffic safety camera locations.

Sponsors: Representatives Angel, Armstrong, Johnson and Finn.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires local legislative authorities who approve use of automated traffic safety cameras to adopt specific and quantifiable standards for the location of signage indicating a zone where the cameras are used.

Hearing Date: 1/16/12

Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).

Background:

Local governments are authorized to use automated traffic safety cameras subject to certain conditions. Prior to use, the local legislative authority must adopt an ordinance allowing their use to detect only stoplight, railroad crossing, or school speed zone violations, and setting forth public notice and signage provisions. All locations where a camera is used must be clearly marked by signs indicating to a driver that he or she is entering a zone where traffic laws are enforced by an automated traffic safety camera.

Summary of Bill:

When adopting an ordinance to approve use of automated traffic safety cameras, a local legislative authority must adopt a definition of "clearly marked" to be applied to all locations within the local legislative authority's jurisdiction. At a minimum, the definition of "clearly marked" must include specific, quantifiable standards for the location of signage.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 11, 2012.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.