New Michigan law authorizes speed cameras in work zones

Lansing, MI — Bipartisan legislation signed into law by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) in December allows speed cameras to be placed in roadway work zones.

Under H.B. 4132 and H.B. 4133, drivers exceeding the speed limit by at least 10 mph in a work zone with workers present will be issued a written warning “using a form that is created by the automated speed enforcement unit.”

Fines for a second speeding violation that occurs within three years can reach up to $150, with fines for subsequent violations increasing to up to $300.

Data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System shows that speeding was linked to 26.9% of the 1,124 traffic-related fatalities reported in Michigan in 2022.

Rep. Will Snyder (D-Muskegon), who co-sponsored the bills, said in a press release that “this legislation will help combat speeding and reckless driving in construction zones, which will protect our essential road workers and drivers alike.”

Added Whitmer: “Whether they’re driving on them or working on them, these bills will make sure that every Michigander is safe on our roads.”

The release notes that 23 other states “use this technology that has been proven to reduce speeds and protect construction workers.”

That total includes Maryland, where Gov. Wes Moore (D) signed similar legislation into law in April.

Officials expect cameras to be operational by the fall, according to a recent report from WSBT-TV in South Bend, IN.