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Board urges state to allow automated speed enforcement to reduce traffic deaths
Summary
Supervisors unanimously backed a resolution urging the California Legislature to authorize automated speed enforcement cameras; sponsors said speed is the leading cause of severe and fatal collisions in the city and the technology is effective elsewhere.
The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Feb. 2 to urge the California Legislature and governor to authorize automated speed-enforcement cameras, joining local Vision Zero advocates in calling for a state law change.
Supervisor Jane Kim and Supervisor Norman Yee co-sponsored the resolution with Supervisor Malia Cohen and Supervisor Matt Haney among supporters; Supervisor Eric Mar led the floor discussion and thanked Walk San Francisco and Vision Zero coalition members for their advocacy. The resolution asks the state to permit city jurisdictions to operate automated speed enforcement systems similar to red-light cameras, which proponents say have reduced speed-related injuries and fatalities in other jurisdictions.
Nicole Ferrara of Walk San Francisco and other coalition members told the board that speed contributes to more than 20% of traffic fatalities and cited results from Washington, D.C., where automated enforcement helped reduce traffic deaths in corridors where cameras were used. Cities that have used automated speed enforcement report reductions in average speeds and severe injuries, advocates said.
Supporters said the City had already developed policy guidance and technical specifications that address privacy, accuracy and fair notice. Board members noted legal and political challenges at the state level but urged a clear local voice backing the change ahead of fast-moving state deadlines.
Ending: The board asked staff to forward the resolution to state legislators and to coordinate with Vision Zero partners on technical and legal recommendations; supporters said the measure would help the city reduce severe injuries and meet Vision Zero goals.
