Prohibits the use of flashing signals to indicate the presence of a photo speed violation monitoring system that is located in a residential area; directs the commissioner of the department of motor vehicles to define the meaning of "residential area" for such purposes.
Summary
A05391 amends the Vehicle and Traffic Law to prohibit the use of flashing signals to warn drivers about the presence of a photo speed violation monitoring system when that system is located in a residential area. The bill adds a new subdivision to section 1113 stating that, notwithstanding any other law, rule, or regulation, flashing signals may not be used for this purpose. It also directs the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to define by rule or regulation what qualifies as a "residential area" for purposes of the prohibition.
The bill leaves intact the existing rules governing flashing red and yellow traffic signals, while carving out this specific restriction on speed camera warning signals. It would take effect immediately upon enactment. In practical terms, the measure would limit how municipalities or other authorities can alert motorists to automated speed enforcement in neighborhoods, potentially affecting traffic-control signage near school zones, residential streets, and other areas where photo speed enforcement is used.
Impact
This bill would amend section 1113 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law by adding a new limitation on traffic-control devices associated with photo speed enforcement. It would prevent flashing signals from being used to indicate the presence of a photo speed violation monitoring system in residential areas, and it would require the DMV commissioner to establish the meaning of "residential area" through regulation. The change would affect local governments, traffic engineers, and enforcement authorities that deploy automated speed cameras and related warning signage.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes in the provided materials, the overall sentiment appears neutral and procedural rather than clearly supportive or opposed. The measure is framed as a targeted traffic-safety and signage regulation, suggesting an intent to standardize or restrict warning methods around automated enforcement. Because no transcripts or vote history are available, there is no documented public disagreement in the supplied record.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is the restriction on warning drivers about speed cameras in residential areas. Supporters may view the bill as preventing misleading or overly conspicuous flashing alerts and preserving the intended deterrent effect of automated enforcement, while opponents may argue that it reduces notice to motorists and could make enforcement feel more punitive. A second likely issue is the undefined scope of "residential area," since the bill leaves that term to DMV rulemaking, which could affect where the prohibition applies and how broadly local authorities can use flashing signals.