Key Provisions of the Bill
Return of Automated Enforcement Cameras
Sacramento discontinued the red-light camera enforcement program in 2024, but this system may soon return in a new form. The main change will be the shift of liability from the driver to the registered owner of the vehicle.
In case of a violation, the ticket is issued to the person whose name is on the registration documents, even if they were not behind the wheel. While this may seem unfair, as another driver might be at fault, the fines will be lower, and the penalty will be civil, not criminal.
Reasons for Restoring the Program
A year ago, the city canceled the program due to its inefficiency and high costs. However, state officials now report that the number of fatalities from running red lights has reached a ten-year high. In response, Senator Angelique Ashby introduced the SB720 bill.
According to the proposal, enforcement cameras will start operating again, and the city will be able to issue fines without identifying the driver. Instead, the vehicle owner will receive a fine in the mail based on the license plate.
The bill also provides for a reduction of the fine from $500 to $100 and reclassifies the violation as civil. This means violators will not have to attend traffic school, receive points on their license, or face increased insurance costs.
Proponents of the law argue that this approach will reduce penalties and simplify enforcement without burdening ordinary drivers.
Issues with the Civil Fine System
At the same time, it is worth noting that in some states using similar civil systems, enforcement problems have arisen. Over time, some drivers have accumulated tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid fines, forcing authorities to pursue debts that are rarely recovered. These same individuals sometimes continue to drive vehicles because the penalties are not criminal, so there are no legal grounds to revoke their licenses.
Future of the Program
If the governor signs the law, Sacramento and other California cities will be able to resume red-light camera enforcement. All revenue from fines will be directed to local safety improvements, such as upgraded crosswalks and new bike lanes.
The question of whether a balance between fairness, enforcement, and funding can be achieved remains open.
Grateful to @sacbee_news for including this opinion piece penned by #SABA (Sac Area Bike Advocates) in support of SB 720 which vastly changes red light enforcement in our communities. This bill is supported by @TheCityofSac and @SacPolice because it both decriminalizes and…
The SB720 bill is controversial due to the shift of liability to vehicle owners, but its proponents emphasize the potential reduction in accidents and simplified fine administration. It is important to consider the experience of other states where similar systems have led to debt accumulation but have also contributed to improved road safety. The success of this initiative will depend on how effectively the interests of safety, fairness, and practical implementation can be combined.