Committee approves broad transportation package extending school‑bus cameras, adding privacy limits for license‑plate readers and other changes

Representative McFarland presented a transportation strike‑all (CS for HB 543) that combined multiple provisions: adjustments to red‑light and yellow‑light timing, expanded rules for automatic license plate readers (LPRs) and privacy protections for the digital driver’s‑license program, and reforms for the three photo‑enforcement programs (red‑light, school speed zone, and school bus stop‑arm cameras). The sponsor described specific changes for school‑bus stop‑arm cameras (allowing private and charter school buses to opt in, with local school districts retaining contract and adjudication authority) and explained that flashing beacons are required for enforceable school speed zones (Representative McFarland).

Robert Beige, President of the Florida Police Chiefs Association, testified the programs yield measurable safety benefits: Fort Walton Beach reported 95% fewer speed violations and a 50% reduction in crashes after adopting cameras (Robert Beige). The bill also includes new procedural protections (longer response windows, hearing officer authorities, and a 2‑year timeframe for contesting violations in some cases), clarifies revenue distribution, and codifies limits on private access to registration data collected by private entities using LPRs. Several amendments were adopted (including clarifications for hearing timelines and MPO studies in certain counties).

The committee approved the strike‑all after debate and technical adjustments and reported the bill favorably (26–0). The measure now moves to the House calendar.