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H 3754

An Act relative to traffic regulation using road safety cameras

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Brian Ashe and 22 co-sponsors

Bill H 3754 allows Massachusetts towns to use automated cameras to enforce traffic laws, aiming to reduce violations and enhance road safety for all drivers.

Reporting date extended to Friday, July 31, 2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 3754

Summary of Bill H 3754: An Act Relative to Traffic Regulation Using Road Safety Cameras

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3754 aims to enhance traffic safety in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by allowing cities and towns to implement automated road safety camera systems. These systems are designed to monitor and enforce traffic laws, thereby reducing violations and improving public safety on the roads.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to existing traffic regulations:

1. Automated Road Safety Camera Systems

  • Definition: The bill defines an "automated road safety camera system" as a device that captures digital photographs or videos of vehicles committing traffic violations.
  • Camera Enforceable Violations: The bill specifies violations that can be enforced through these cameras, including:
    • Failing to stop at a red light.
    • Making prohibited right turns on red.
    • Exceeding speed limits.
    • Blocking intersections.

2. Implementation and Oversight

  • Municipal Authority: Cities and towns can install these systems with approval from local governing bodies (city councils or select boards) after public hearings.
  • Reporting Requirements: Municipalities must submit annual reports to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation detailing camera locations, violation statistics, and safety analyses.

3. Fines and Penalties

  • Fine Structure: Fines for violations range from $25 to $150, with the registered vehicle owner liable for the fine unless the driver has received a citation for the same violation.
  • Warning Period: For the first 60 days after a camera system becomes operational, municipalities may issue only written warnings instead of fines to educate drivers.

4. Evidence and Liability

  • Prima Facie Evidence: Photographs and data from the camera systems serve as prima facie evidence of violations.
  • Non-Impact on Driving Records: Violations recorded by these cameras will not affect the driver's operating record or insurance premiums.

Affected Parties

  • Municipalities: Cities and towns that choose to adopt the automated camera systems will be responsible for their implementation and oversight.
  • Drivers: Vehicle owners may face fines for violations captured by the cameras, although initial warnings will be issued during the introductory period.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025.
  • Current Status: The reporting date for the bill has been extended to March 18, 2026, allowing for further discussion and potential amendments.
  • Upcoming Hearing: A hearing is scheduled for June 3, 2025, to gather public input and discuss the bill's implications.

Conclusion

Bill H 3754 represents a proactive approach to improving road safety in Massachusetts through the use of technology. By allowing municipalities to enforce traffic laws via automated systems, the bill seeks to reduce violations and enhance public safety while providing a structured framework for implementation and oversight.

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

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