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SB 3228

AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- AUTOMATED TRAFFIC VIOLATION MONETARY SYSTEMS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jake Bissaillon and 3 co-sponsors

Rhode Island extends and clarifies automated traffic violation monitoring, including “Don’t Block the Box,” with regulated oversight, private partnerships, and a 2030 sunset.

06/26/2026 Effective without Governor's signature
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 3228

Summary of Bill: SB 3228 (Rhode Island) — Automated Traffic Violation Monetary Systems

Basic information

  • Jurisdiction: Rhode Island
  • Session: 2026
  • Introduced: April 20, 2026
  • Sponsors: Senators Ciccone, Bissaillon, Raptakis, Thompson (with co-sponsors listed)
  • Committee: Senate Judiciary
  • Status/timing: Takes effect upon passage. Includes sunset extensions for “Don’t Block the Box” automated enforcement provisions.

Purpose and intent

The bill extends and clarifies the authorization and operation timeline for automated traffic violation monitoring systems (AVMS) that detect violations of traffic control signals, with a specific focus on the “Don’t Block the Box” intersections. It gradually extends the sunset date for these AVMS provisions, allowing more time before the sunset.

Key provisions and changes

Section 1: Amendments to 31-41.2-3 (Automated Traffic Violation Monitoring Systems)

  • General authorization remains: The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and municipalities may install and operate AVMS that monitor violations of traffic control signals.
  • Scope of systems:
    • Systems must monitor and detect violations of traffic signal laws.
    • A municipality may install AVMS at up to three designated “Don’t Block the Box” intersections to monitor violations of § 31-15-12.2.
  • Sunset extension for Don’t Block the Box program:
    • Original sunset date language is amended to extend the sunset to January 15, 2030 (the prior text referenced 2027; the current version shows both dates due to formatting, but the explanatory note confirms extension to 2030).
  • Approval and standards:
    • AVMS must be approved by the RIDOT Director.
    • The Director must promulgate regulations under the Administrative Procedures Act (APA), ensuring systems meet standards of efficiency and accuracy.
    • Systems must be capable of recording both vehicle images and license plates.
  • Installation by non-state actors:
    • If installation occurs on state-maintained streets or roads by parties other than RIDOT, the RIDOT Director must approve.
  • Private entity involvement:
    • RIDOT and/or municipalities may contract with private entities to provide and maintain AVMS.
  • Compensation model:
    • Payment to private providers must be based on the value of equipment and related services, not on revenue generated by the systems.

Section 2: Effective date

  • Effective upon passage.

Who/what is affected

  • State and local governments: RIDOT and Rhode Island municipalities implementing AVMS.
  • Don’t Block the Box intersections: Up to three intersections per municipality may be designated for AVMS enforcement.
  • Private contractors: Possible contracts to supply and maintain AVMS equipment.
  • Regulatory framework: RIDOT Director and events governed under the Administrative Procedures Act for approval and operation standards.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Sunset timing: Extends the sunset for the “Don’t Block the Box” AVMS provisions to January 15, 2030.
  • Regulatory rulemaking: RIDOT Director must promulgate regulations to govern approval and operation of AVMS.
  • Operational date: The act takes effect on passage; the longer-term AVMS program (including the extended sunset) follows the updated timeline.

Practical impact

  • Extends the availability and usage window for AVMS, particularly for don’t-block-the-box enforcement.
  • Maintains safeguards via regulatory approval, standard-setting, image capture requirements (vehicle and license plate), and a revenue-neutral compensation model for private providers.
  • Enables broader deployment by allowing private partners under RIDOT oversight, while ensuring accountability through standards and approvals.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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