CT HB05458

Municipalities with populations greater than 48,000 may adopt ordinances authorizing automated traffic enforcement safety devices to enforce red light violations under Connecticut General Statute section 14-299, with authorization expiring September 30, 2018.

Civil penalties for violations shall not exceed $50, with optional processing fees not exceeding $15; penalties must be applied toward device installation and operation costs or local transportation infrastructure improvements.

Municipalities must install advance warning signs 100-110 feet before intersections with devices, require police chief approval of device locations, and ensure yellow signal duration meets State Traffic Commission recommendations.

Violations detected by automated devices do not constitute moving traffic violations, are not reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles, and do not assess points against the operator's license.

Vehicle owners may assert defenses including proof of vehicle rental/lease to another person, vehicle or license plate theft, or vehicle operation by another identified person; hearing officers appointed by the municipality shall conduct contested violation hearings.