Maine could see automated speed traps in highway work zones
AUGUSTA (WGME) — A proposed pilot program in Maine to introduce automated speed traps in highway work zones was discussed in a public hearing held by the Committee on Transportation on Wednesday.
The bill, LD 1457, introduced by Republican Senator Brad Farrin, aims to help keep workers safe by installing automated speed control systems, including cameras, in work zones on the turnpike.
"We have lost workers in the work zones, and I think it's time we grew some attention to it and try and save lives with accountability," Farrin said.
Supporters of the bill, including some Democrats, argue that the program will protect highway workers and encourage drivers to slow down.
"Getting this pilot bill, which maintains motorist privacy, which is fully transparent public notification of any work zone, automated work zone speed enforcement that’s happening, would be a win-win for the state," Maine Turnpike Authority Executive Director Andre Briere said. "It protects our workers and reduces speeds and gets people into the habit of slowing down as they’re entering work zones."
If passed, the program would be implemented in 2026, with three automated systems set up in highway work zones. Drivers exceeding the speed limit by 11 miles per hour or more would first receive a mailed notice, followed by a ticket for subsequent offenses.
Maine Turnpike Authority officials said they will be funding this pilot study.
However, the proposal faces opposition from those concerned about privacy.
"We believe in the rights for Mainers' privacy, and people need to stand up against it, because if you’re going to be ticketed for speeding, whether it’s in a work zone or anywhere else on the highway or any road in Maine, it should be because the police officer witnessed do you do it not because we’re setting up creepy surveillance," Maine Policy Institute Director of Legislative Affairs Jacob Posik said.
Posik also raised concerns about vacant work zones.
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"It’s technically a work zone, but there’s nobody actually there working, and it’s crazy to think that you get automatically ticketed for going at least 11 miles over the post work zone speed limit even though there’s nobody’s lives who you're jeopardizing who is working in the work zone," Posik said.
In response to privacy concerns, Farrin assured that personal information would be protected.
"We are not collecting personal data, it's not being for sale, it can't be forward this is strictly for this pilot program," Farrin said.
He also noted that the state already uses cameras for toll booths on the highway.
This bill will undergo a work session before sent to the full floor.
