Senate committee advances 'Traffic Signature' bill after debate over officers' refusal-to-sign option

The Senate Public Safety Committee advanced House Bill 283, known in committee as the "Traffic Signature" bill, after hearing from the bill’s author, Representative Neal, and a round of questions from senators.

Representative Neal said the bill "codifies into law the ability for law enforcement to write 'refuse to sign' in instances where an encounter with a citizen who does not agree with a charge" and also extends acceptance of a digital driver's license at traffic stops to 2032. Chairman Albers said the digital license extension was delayed because of equipment cost concerns; he cited estimates that equipping an officer could cost up to $1,000 per officer for handheld devices.

Senators asked whether writing "refuse to sign" removes other options for motorists, including the practice of posting a copy of a driver's license at recorder's court to have a case bound over to state court. Senator Bearden and Representative Neal debated whether refusing to sign forces a motorist to appear at the first hearing rather than use binding-over procedures. Representative Neal explained officers retain discretion and the bill documents that practice, but the committee sought clarification and localized questions about procedure.

Senator Bearden offered an amendment to strike "shall" and replace it with "may" on line 23 to preserve officer discretion; after discussion he withdrew the amendment. The committee then moved the bill and recorded two no votes; Chairman Albers instructed staff to document the opposing votes.

Why it matters: Sponsors say the change will reduce confrontations during traffic stops and give officers an option that avoids escalation. Critics on the committee pushed for clarity about motorists’ procedural rights after refusing to sign.

What happens next: The measure will move forward to additional Senate consideration; sponsors said they will work with stakeholders to clarify implementation details.