Motor vehicles; enforcement of speeding violations in school zones through automated traffic enforcement safety devices; repeal all laws

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eddie Lumsden and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 225 eliminates automated speed enforcement in Georgia school zones, impacting local agencies and motorists by removing penalties from these devices.

Senate Passed/Adopted By Substitute

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 225 aims to repeal existing laws that allow for the enforcement of speeding violations in school zones through automated traffic enforcement safety devices in Georgia. The bill seeks to eliminate the use of these devices and prevent local governing bodies or law enforcement agencies from entering into or renewing contracts related to their enforcement.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically targeting Article 2 of Chapter 14 of Title 40, which pertains to speed detection devices. The main provisions are as follows:

Repeal of Existing Laws:

Repeals Code Sections 40-14-1.1 (definitions), 40-14-1.2 (agent definitions), and 40-14-18 (enforcement of speed limits in school zones using recorded images).
Removes requirements for permits and operational guidelines for automated traffic enforcement devices.

Prohibition on Contracts:

Prohibits local governing bodies and law enforcement agencies from entering into or renewing contracts for the enforcement of speeding violations in school zones using automated devices, effective July 1, 2026.

Revisions to Radar Device Regulations:

Maintains existing regulations for radar devices used by law enforcement, including testing for accuracy and maintaining logs of performance.

Effective Dates:

The bill will become effective upon approval by the Governor or upon becoming law without such approval, with specific sections (1-8) taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Repeal of Conflicting Laws:

All laws and parts of laws that conflict with this Act are repealed.

Who Would Be Affected

Local Governments and Law Enforcement: The bill directly impacts local governing bodies and law enforcement agencies by restricting their ability to use automated traffic enforcement devices in school zones.

Motorists: Drivers in school zones will no longer face penalties from automated devices, potentially affecting traffic safety measures in these areas.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Journey: HB 225 was introduced on February 3, 2025, and has passed through various legislative stages, including favorable reports from committees and multiple readings in both the House and Senate. It was adopted by the Senate on April 4, 2025.

Timeline for Implementation: The prohibition on contracts for automated enforcement in school zones will take effect on July 1, 2026, allowing time for local agencies to adjust to the new regulations.

Conclusion

House Bill 225 represents a significant shift in how speeding violations in school zones are enforced in Georgia, moving away from automated systems towards potentially more traditional methods of enforcement. The bill reflects a legislative intent to reassess the role of technology in traffic enforcement, particularly in sensitive areas such as school zones.

Bill