The NMA continues to advocate for motorists’ rights at the national, state and local level. Legislatures across the country took up a broad range of motorists’ issues in the first quarter of 2015. Here’s a brief summary of the driving-related issues we addressed.
Supported Senate Bill 218 which would prevent the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority from operating bogus stop sign cameras on the lands it manages. The bill is currently in the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee.
Opposed Assembly Bill 1287 which would allow increased photo enforcement capabilities on transit vehicles. The bill passed the full Assembly in is now in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee.
As a supporting member of the Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates, the NMA worked with the alliance to oppose the expansion of interstate tolling under consideration by the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Interstate Highway System.
Opposed Senate Bill 5688 which would allow the city of White Plains to operate red-light cameras. The bill passed the Legislature and now awaits Gov. Cuomo’s signature.
Supported House Bill 159 which would make it legal to display only one license plate on the rear of a vehicle. The bill has been referred to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Opposed House Bill 950 as currently written, which would eliminate the sunset clause for Pennsylvania’s red-light camera program, allowing them to operate in perpetuity. The bill is currently in the House Rules Committee.
Opposed House Bill 1300 which would permit local police agencies to use radar and laser for speed enforcement. The bill has been referred to the House Transportation Committee.
Opposed Senate Bill 840 which would create a pilot program to use speed cameras in highway work zones—a pilot program that could eventually lead to the use of speed cameras throughout the state. The bill has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee.
Opposed Senate Bill 1128 which was portrayed as restricting ticket camera use, but in reality allowed the use of red-light cameras, as well as manned photo radar vans and speed cameras in school zones. The bill in its original form was essentially a complete ban on all camera-based enforcement throughout the state. The bill was signed by Gov. Haslam.
Thanks to the many NMA members who volunteered their time to send emails, write letters, make phone calls, and work with policymakers and media outlets on these important issues. If you’re not signed up to receive legislative alerts but would like to, use the “Choose Your NMA E-Subscriptions” link in the sidebar of this email.