HB 1676 - Photo Red Light Imaging Detector Systems

• Establishes a photo red light imaging detector systems program to enforce traffic signal laws statewide on state and county highways in Hawaii, Maui, Kauai counties and the City and County of Honolulu.

• Creates a two-year pilot program in Honolulu Police Department Districts 1, 5, 6, and 7 with a 30-day warning period before citations are issued; cameras must be installed only at intersections with documented red light violations and following comprehensive engineering reviews.

• Requires citations to be mailed to registered vehicle owners within 10 days of violation; registered owners are strictly liable unless they present specific defenses (vehicle stolen, emergency vehicle yielding, funeral procession, law enforcement direction, or not owning vehicle at violation time).

• Establishes a photo red light imaging detector systems special fund to collect all fines, which must be expended in the county where collected for program establishment, operation, maintenance, and management; prohibits vendor compensation from being based on fine revenue.

• Appropriates $800,000 from the state highway fund for fiscal year 2021-2022 and requires annual legislative reports on pilot program results including collision reduction data and recommendations by 2024.