State highway work zone speed safety program.

Assembly Member Haney's highway work zone safety legislation authorizes the California Department of Transportation to deploy automated speed enforcement systems in state highway construction and maintenance areas through 2032. The program allows installation of up to 75 speed monitoring devices that would issue civil citations when workers are present.

The bill requires prominent signage warning drivers of photo enforcement zones and mandates a 30-day public information campaign before implementation. During the first 60 days, only warning notices would be issued. Civil penalties would then range from $50 for driving 11-15 mph over the limit to $500 for speeds exceeding 100 mph, with revenues funding program administration and enhanced enforcement efforts.

To protect privacy, the legislation prohibits facial recognition technology and restricts access to photographic and administrative records. Citations must include rear license plate images only, excluding vehicle occupants. Alleged violators can request an initial departmental review and subsequent administrative hearing, with appeals available through superior court. The department must offer payment plans and reduced penalties for low-income individuals.

The Department of Transportation must evaluate and report on the program's impact on work zone safety, including data on speeds, collisions, citation rates, and demographic effects. The department will consult with the California Highway Patrol and stakeholder organizations on implementation guidelines, which require public review before adoption.