A push for greater leniency is always welcome news for motorists in Georgia. Many drivers have become frustrated with the number of obscure traffic laws, automated traffic cameras, and other issues on the road. With help from an experienced traffic ticket defense lawyer in Georgia, you may be able to push back against potential penalties – even if these laws never pass.
Georgia Lawmaker Wants Traffic Cameras Banned in School Zones
In February of 2025, multiple sources reported that a lawmaker in Georgia was seeking to ban automatic traffic cameras in school zones across the state. This would reverse a controversial 2018 law that allowed countless school districts to install these cameras. Some say that these cameras are simply in place to generate income, and they have virtually no effect on public safety.
This bill actually goes much further, pushing for greater regulatory oversight for all radar devices. The new law would mandate regular accuracy tests for radar devices and calibration requirements.
A crucial detail is the fact that if you get a speeding ticket based on radar technology, you would have the right to request that the police test the device for accuracy. You would be able to make this request immediately after the traffic stop, and the officer would have to comply with your request before issuing you a ticket.
Hidden or difficult-to-see speed cameras would also become unlawful under this bill, which is called House Bill 225.
Penalties for Passing School Buses Could Become More Lenient
Another recent bill is House Bill 344, which would make the penalties for passing a school bus more lenient. Under current law, drivers can face jail sentences of up to one year for passing a school bus unlawfully – not to mention a $1,000 fine. Under House Bill 344, this fine would be lowered to just $300 for a first-time offense. Fines would still increase with subsequent offenses, however, reaching up to $1,000 for third-time offenders. There is no guarantee that this bill will pass, however – and some have reacted negatively to it.
Atlanta Launches New Amnesty Program for Traffic Charges
If you fail to appear in Atlanta’s municipal court after traffic-related charges, you could eventually face arrest. However, a new amnesty program launched in 2025 waives arrest warrants. Note that this only applies to traffic offenses – and not more serious criminal offenses. Traffic authorities in Atlanta have urged motorists to check whether they are eligible to participate in this program.
Can a Georgia Traffic Defense Lawyer Help Me?
If you received a traffic ticket in Georgia, you might want to talk to an experienced lawyer. Many of these legal professionals have helped many motorists fight their tickets over the years. It is possible to push back against these tickets, avoid fines, and prevent excessive points on your license. For more information, consider contacting Lankford & Moore Law.
