As previously reported, several speed camera bills have been introduced this session, each with notable differences in scope and requirements. While the bills and their contents have changed often, none of them are of concern to VACo at this time.
Two bills patroned by Delegate Seibold, HB 994 and HB 1330, were continued until the 2027 Session following their initial hearing in the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee on March 6. However, HB 994 was revived just days later at the next meeting of the Committee, and was conformed to SB 84 (Williams-Graves) and amended to include a re-enactment clause.
Three other speed camera bills remain active in this session: SB 84 (Williams-Graves), HB 1220 (Delaney), and SB 219 (Jones). SB 84 and HB 1220 include significant changes to speed safety camera programs, such as the use of civil penalty revenues, signage, data retention, device calibration, reporting requirements and other requirements. The key distinction between the two is that SB 84 also allows for the use of pedestrian crossing violation and stop sign violation monitoring systems, which is not found in HB 1220.
SB 219 was originally introduced to require a second summons to be mailed when a person fails to appear after an initial notice of a speed camera violation. Under that framework, a second failure to appear would require the Department of Motor Vehicles to refuse to issue or renew a vehicle’s registration or license plate until all civil penalties and fees are paid. The bill has since been heavily amended to incorporate the provisions of HB 1220 along with new enforcement mechanisms, though the second summons language remains intact.
All three bills are currently on the floor of their respective chambers awaiting a full vote. Given the differences between them, it is likely that some or all will be referred to a Committee of Conference to resolve outstanding conflicts.
VACo Contact: James Hutzler