WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 3309

Relating to the use of automated traffic control systems by local authorities and law enforcement agencies.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Terry Canales

HB 3309 establishes state regulations for Texas municipalities' use of automated traffic cameras, governing installation, operation, revenue use, and citation procedures for traffic enforcement.

Received from the House
#lawenforcement(i0510) #trafficcontrol(s0445) #vehicles&traffic--equipment(i0855) #vehicles&traffic--rulesofroad(i0860)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3309

Legislative bill overview

HB 3309 establishes regulations governing how local authorities and law enforcement agencies in Texas can deploy and operate automated traffic control systems (primarily red-light cameras and speed enforcement cameras). The bill sets standards for installation, operation, revenue allocation, and public notice requirements for these automated enforcement technologies.

Why is this important

Automated traffic enforcement systems generate significant municipal revenue while raising questions about public safety effectiveness, privacy, and fairness. This bill directly affects millions of Texas drivers who may receive citations from these systems, local government budgets that depend on this revenue, and communities' ability to implement traffic safety measures.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue incentives: Restrictions on how municipalities can profit from automated enforcement versus public safety motivations—cities may be incentivized to maximize citations rather than improve safety
  • Due process concerns: Questions about citation accuracy, driver notification timelines, appeal procedures, and the burden of proof in automated enforcement cases
  • Geographic equity: Variation in where cameras are installed may disproportionately affect certain neighborhoods or create inconsistent enforcement standards across jurisdictions
  • Technological reliability: Standards for camera accuracy, calibration, maintenance, and liability for false citations
  • Speed versus safety: Balance between using these systems as revenue tools versus genuine traffic calming measures

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

Sign in to ask a question.