Lawmakers weigh bus cameras to ticket blocked lanes
Lawmakers in Minnesota are considering using bus-mounted cameras to ticket drivers who block transit and bike lanes. The proposal was reported by FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul and aims to reduce bus delays and improve safety for cyclists and transit riders. Cameras would document lane blockages so authorities could issue citations without needing an officer at the scene.
Supporters say the change could help buses keep schedules, speed up commutes, and free bike lanes for safer travel. Opponents may raise privacy, enforcement and cost questions as lawmakers debate details and possible pilot programs. Lawmakers are expected to continue discussions in committee hearings before deciding whether to move the measure forward.
đ Key Facts
- The bill would authorize cities to use automated cameras mounted on Metro Transit buses to issue parking tickets for vehicles blocking bus lanes, bus stops, and bike lanes.
- At 7th Street and Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, an average of 52 buses are blocked each day, with some blockages lasting 10 minutes or more.
- The proposal has cleared a Minnesota Senate committee but is stalled in the House; fines would be civil-only and the bill bans facial recognition and using footage for unrelated law enforcement.
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