Photo enforcement of traffic violations could be coming our way

Watch out scofflaws. If you run a red light, speed down the street or block the box (our pet peeve), you may get caught on camera and a ticket sent your way. Rep. David Biele has filed a bill to allow photo enforcement of traffic violations. Applies to speeding violations, blocking the box, and school bus violations.  The goals is to keep our streets safe for all! 

See press release below:

BOSTON—Recently, Representative David Biele (D-Boston) filed legislation to increase roadway safety protections for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists through the use of photo enforcement.

The bill, An Act concerning photo enforcement of certain traffic violations, would authorize municipalities to use cameras for photo enforcement of speeding violations, blocking the box traffic violations, and failure to stop for school buses.  The legislation enables school buses to be equipped with cameras to capture violations when the “STOP” arm is extended to stop traffic for student crossing.

Currently, local municipalities do not have the ability to use photo enforcement of traffic violations.  The bill was drafted and filed in collaboration with the Office of Mayor Martin J. Walsh.

“It is important that we continue to be proactive in looking for ways to better protect pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists, and enforcement is a crucial tool to accomplish that goal,” said Rep. Biele. “Giving local municipalities the ability to use camera and photo enforcement for these types of traffic violations can work as a deterrent for future drivers and make our streets safer.  I am thankful for the support of Mayor Walsh and look forward to continued conversations on the how we can work together to increase pedestrian and roadway safety for residents.”

This bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on Transportation for consideration and will have a public hearing this session.