H.R. 5394: Freedom from Automated Speed Enforcement Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Freedom from Automated Speed Enforcement Act of 2025, introduces measures related to automated speed enforcement systems used by states on their highways. Here are the key aspects of the bill:

Withholding Funds

The bill states that if a state operates any automated speed enforcement systems, it will face financial penalties in the form of withheld federal highway funds. Specifically:

• The Secretary of Transportation is required to withhold 10% of the federal highway funds allocated to each state that fails to certify the non-use of such systems.

Annual Certification Requirement

Each state's Governor must submit an annual certification to the Secretary of Transportation confirming that no jurisdiction within the state operates an automated speed enforcement system. This certification acts as a compliance measure for receiving full highway funding.

• The Secretary may conduct audits or request additional documentation to verify the accuracy of these certifications.

Exemptions

The bill allows exceptions for the operation of automated speed enforcement systems in certain scenarios:

• In designated school zones during posted school hours.
• In active construction work zones, provided specific conditions are met, including:
• The construction zone must have a posted speed limit of less than 55 miles per hour.
• There must be clear signage indicating that the area is a construction zone and that an automated speed enforcement system is in use.

Definition of Automated Speed Enforcement System

The bill defines an automated speed enforcement system as any device that:

• Captures an image of a vehicle for the purpose of issuing a citation for speeding.
• Operates without the need for a law enforcement officer to be present.

Regulatory Authority

The bill also grants the Secretary of Transportation the authority to create regulations necessary to implement these changes regarding automated speed enforcement systems.

Clerical Amendments

Lastly, the bill includes provisions for clerical amendments to the legal texts related to highway funding, updating the titles and sections of laws where necessary.

Relevant Companies

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