Transportation (Traffic Safety)

HB 275 establishes a two-year red light camera pilot program (2027-2028) at up to 10 high-risk intersections in Utah, designated using crash, traffic, and injury data. The Department of Transportation manages camera installation and data collection, while local law enforcement agencies issue warnings (not fines) to drivers captured violating traffic signals during a public education phase. The program requires clear signage at intersections and prohibits using camera evidence for citations or penalty points on driving records. It mandates annual reports on the program’s implementation and results before its repeal in April 2028.

HB 421, the "Hit and Run Amendments," increases penalties for drivers who leave the scene of an accident involving property damage or injury. It specifically targets repeat offenders - those previously convicted of the same hit-and-run offense or driving under the influence (DUI) - by imposing harsher punishments. The bill amends Utah's traffic code (sections 41-6a-401, 41-6a-401.3, and others) to clarify definitions, strengthen penalties, and add a new provision (41-6a-401.8) while repealing outdated language. This directly affects drivers convicted of hit-and-run incidents with prior related offenses, making penalties more severe for those with prior violations. The bill contains no new funding requirements or technical changes beyond the penalty adjustments.