Senate adopts bill allowing local governments to locate automated vehicle ID systems on interstates with privacy safeguards

On April 20 the Senate, sitting as the committee of the whole, considered House Bill 1071, which would allow local governments to locate automated vehicle identification systems on interstate highways. Senator Cutter, speaking as sponsor, presented the bill for second reading and described amendments aimed at addressing privacy and safety concerns.

Two floor amendments were adopted: amendment L006 adds language reaffirming protections for personal identification and limiting use of the systems to capturing speeding and other traffic infractions; amendment L005 modifies placement rules to permit cameras in locations where shoulder lanes or other roadway geometry make conventional enforcement difficult, citing Clear Creek County as an example. "This amendment addresses some concerns about data sharing and privacy and ... reaffirms our protections that state and political subdivision employees are prohibited from disclosing personal identification," Senator Cutter said.

The amendments passed with voice votes and the Senate adopted the bill on second reading. Floor discussion emphasized balancing traffic enforcement and privacy protections; the transcript does not record implementation details such as data retention periods or specific vendor requirements, which will be determined in statute text and by implementing agencies.

The bill moves forward to subsequent readings and enrollment as appropriate.