CA SB1397

Authorizes the California Department of Transportation to enter into a competitive procurement agreement with a single entity to construct, upgrade, and operate a network of changeable message signs on state highways, subject to federal approval.

Requires the selected entity to contract for commercial advertisements on the signs when not in use by the department, with revenues shared between the entity and the department and state revenues deposited in the State Highway Account.

Establishes a demonstration phase as a condition of full implementation, with an independent consultant to evaluate safety impacts, operational viability, and return on investment before authorization to expand.

Prohibits advertising for alcohol, tobacco, firearms, sexually explicit material, and political messages; requires department emergency notifications to have priority over commercial advertising and maintains department control over sign locations and safety determinations.

Requires the department to submit a report to legislative transportation committees following the demonstration phase evaluation, including implementation status, revenue data, safety impacts, and types of advertising displayed.