Louisiana Speed Camera Shake-Up: New Rules for School Zones & Your City!

Changes are on the way on how towns and cities can use speed cameras to enforce traffic laws. The House has given final approval to a measure that will prohibit the use of speed cameras except in school zones.

The measure passed also calls on cities to operate school zone cameras only on school days for two hours in the morning and two hours during after school hours.

What Are the Requirements for Cameras in School Zones?

SB 99 says there must be signage visible in the school zone letting motorists know the area has cameras in place.

Tickets sent in the mail must also include a self-addressed stamped envelope, a QR code, or other internet link for vehicle owners to access the certification without a fee.

Red light cameras would also be allowed in communities that already have them operating. No new red light cameras would be permitted.

READ MORE: Camera locations proposed by Shreveport Leaders at these Locations.

What Town Was Granted an Exception to this Camera Ban?

Opponents of the bill on the House floor urged members to allow the cameras in some communities where the program is being run correctly. Representative Miller says cameras are set up in Opelousas in areas where speeding is an issue. He says many small towns are very short on staffing and this is a way to enforce the law without wasting manpower.

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On a vote of 47-46, the town of Opelousas was given an exception and will be allowed to continue using speed cameras, as needed.

The final vote on the bill was 72-23.

Almost every one of the representatives from the Shreveport Bossier area voted in favor of this camera ban.

Only Joy Walters voted against it. Tammy Phelps is listed as absent for the vote.