SB 3312 Summary

• Clarifies that registered owners are strictly liable for red light violations detected by photo imaging systems only when the system is "actively monitored," and creates exceptions for certain defenses including vehicle theft, emergency vehicle situations, funeral processions, and law enforcement direction.

• Restricts the defenses available to registered owners in red light violation proceedings to five specific categories: proof of non-ownership at violation time, yielding to emergency vehicles, funeral processions, stolen vehicle/plates reported prior to violation, or passage at law enforcement direction.

• Modifies the definition of "photo red light imaging detector system" to clarify it includes vehicle sensors working in synchronization with traffic signals and cameras that record vehicle license plates.

• Extends the lapse date for appropriated funds from June 30, 2022 to June 30, 2025, and modifies funding transfers to the Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney's office for fiscal years 2022-2025 related to program personnel costs.

• Takes effect January 1, 2050, with Part II (appropriations amendments) taking effect retroactively on June 30, 2021.