CT SB00706

Municipalities with populations greater than 60,000 may use automated traffic enforcement safety devices to enforce red light violations under section 14-299 of state statutes, with authorization from the chief executive officer and legislative body.

Municipalities must install advance warning signs at all roadway approaches before an intersection equipped with an automated enforcement device and must require a local police officer or designated vendor employee to review and approve recorded images before violation notices are mailed.

Civil penalties for violations are set at the greater of $124 or the maximum penalty permitted, with revenue distributed as follows: 70% to the municipality, 15% to the state Department of Social Services for brain injury services, and 15% to the state Special Transportation Fund.

Violations detected by automated devices are not considered moving violations, infractions, or reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles, except that failure to pay penalties will result in registration nonrenewal.

Vehicle owners may assert defenses including being a rental/lease company, not operating the vehicle, theft of the vehicle or license plate, and emergency vehicle operations or compliance with police orders, with formal hearings available to contest violations.