Overview

This bill allows local authorities in England and Wales to use automatically recorded evidence from approved devices to issue penalty charges for moving traffic offences. This streamlines enforcement and eliminates the need for police involvement in many cases.

Description

The Traffic Management (Approved Devices) Bill aims to enable civil enforcement of moving traffic offences using technology. Specifically:

• Approved Devices: The Secretary of State will define "approved devices" based on criteria similar to those used for parking enforcement. These devices must meet specific standards for recording moving traffic violations.
• Enforcement Authorities: Local authorities (defined as "enforcement authorities" under the Traffic Management Act 2004) will be able to issue penalty charges based on evidence from these devices.
• Types of Offences: The bill covers moving traffic contraventions as defined in paragraph 8 of Schedule 7 to the Traffic Management Act 2004. Examples include bus lane infringements, box junction violations, and driving in prohibited areas.
• Time Limit: Penalty charges must be issued within six months of the offence occurring.
• Geographic Scope: The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The costs associated with approving devices and potential administrative overheads will likely be borne by local authorities, not central government. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Drivers: Drivers who commit moving traffic offences will be subject to penalty charges if caught by an approved device.
• Local Authorities: Local authorities will gain the power to enforce moving traffic offences more efficiently, potentially increasing revenue from fines.
• Police: The police may experience a reduction in the number of moving traffic offences they need to handle.
• Technology Providers: Companies producing approved devices may see increased market demand.

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