Washington sets new revenue guidelines for automated traffic safety cameras

On February 24, 2025, Washington State introduced Senate Bill 5757, aimed at reforming the allocation of revenues generated from automated traffic safety cameras. The bill seeks to enhance traffic safety measures while addressing environmental health disparities in smaller jurisdictions.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 5757 is to ensure that a portion of the revenue collected from traffic safety camera infractions is directed towards active transportation safety initiatives. Specifically, the bill mandates that starting four years after the installation of new automated traffic safety cameras, 25% of the non-interest revenue exceeding operational costs must be deposited into the Cooper Jones Active Transportation Safety Account. This account is designed to fund projects that promote safer transportation options, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Key provisions of the bill include stipulations that cities or counties with populations under 10,000 must utilize the Department of Health's environmental health disparities map to inform their use of traffic camera revenue for safety activities. This requirement aims to ensure that funds are allocated in a manner that addresses specific community needs, particularly in areas that may face greater health risks.

Notably, the bill allows jurisdictions with existing automated traffic safety camera programs prior to January 1, 2024, to continue allocating their revenue as they see fit, with provisions for limited increases in the number of camera locations. This aspect of the bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers regarding the balance between local control and standardized revenue allocation.

The introduction of Senate Bill 5757 has generated a mix of support and opposition. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance public safety and ensure that funds are used effectively to address traffic-related issues in underserved communities. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for increased surveillance and the reliance on automated systems for law enforcement, which they argue could lead to inequities in enforcement practices.

The economic implications of the bill are significant, as it could redirect substantial funds towards active transportation projects, potentially improving infrastructure and safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Socially, the bill aims to address disparities in health outcomes related to transportation safety, particularly in smaller communities that may lack resources for such initiatives.

As Senate Bill 5757 moves through the legislative process, its outcomes could set a precedent for how automated traffic enforcement revenues are managed in Washington State, influencing future policies on public safety and community health. The bill's progress will be closely monitored by stakeholders across various sectors, including public health advocates, local governments, and transportation safety organizations.