Pennsylvania Could Bring Back Local Police Radar Enforcement
Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering legislation that would authorize local police departments to use radar for speed enforcement, ending a longstanding restriction that makes the commonwealth the only state that bars local police from using radar to enforce speed limits.
Bill Would Expand Local Speed Enforcement
Under current Pennsylvania law, local police can stop drivers for speeding but cannot use radar to establish a vehicle’s speed. The proposed measure would give municipal police another tool for enforcing posted speed limits.
The legislation advanced through the Pennsylvania Senate on Tuesday. Lawmakers have included provisions addressing the issuance of speeding tickets, although questions remain about how the changes could affect enforcement practices, roadway safety and local revenue.
Pennsylvania’s Radar Restriction
Pennsylvania is currently the only state that prohibits local police from using radar for speed-limit enforcement. The restriction has continued to distinguish the state from jurisdictions where municipal departments routinely use radar and other speed-measuring devices.
The proposed change would apply to local police departments while preserving the broader rules governing traffic enforcement in the state.
Debate Over Enforcement
Supporters say radar would provide local departments with an additional method to identify speeding drivers. The measure is part of a broader discussion among Pennsylvania lawmakers about how speed limits are enforced and how tickets are issued.
Further action is required before local police departments could begin using radar under the proposed legislation.
