House Bill 1694

AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNING AUTHORITIES OF THE CITY OF PASCAGOULA, MISSISSIPPI, TO UTILIZE AUTOMATED RECORDING EQUIPMENT OR SYSTEM WITHIN THE CITY TO ENFORCE COMPLIANCE WITH CERTAIN TRAFFIC REGULATIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNING AUTHORITIES MAY IMPOSE OR COLLECT ANY CIVIL OR CRIMINAL FINE, FEE OR PENALTY FOR ANY VIOLATION OF SUCH TRAFFIC REGULATIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. As used in this act, the following terms have the meanings ascribed to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(a) "City" means the City of Pascagoula, Mississippi.

(b) "Governing authorities" means the mayor and city council of the City of Pascagoula, Mississippi.

(c) "Automated recording equipment or system" means a camera or optical device installed to work in conjunction with a traffic control signal or radar speed detection equipment, or both, and designed to record images that depict the license plate attached to the rear of a motor vehicle that is not operated in compliance with instructions of the traffic control signal or the posted speed limit.

SECTION 2. (1) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 17-25-19, Mississippi Code of 1972, the governing authorities of the City of Pascagoula, Mississippi, are authorized to adopt, enact or enforce any ordinance authorizing the use of automated recording equipment or system to enforce compliance with traffic signals, traffic speeds or other traffic laws, rules or regulations on any public street within the city and may impose or collect any civil or criminal fine, fee or penalty for any such violation.

(2) Before the installation of any such automated recording equipment or system, the governing authorities of the city shall hold a public hearing regarding the use of such equipment or system. After the public hearing, the governing authorities shall adopt a resolution approving or disapproving the installation and utilization of such equipment or system within the city.

SECTION 3. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage.