The Electronic Traffic Enforcement (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2023, for establishing a legal framework to allow Police to issue penalty tickets against traffic offences or contraventions by electronic means, was published in the Government Gazette today.

The Transport & Logistics Bureau noted that its target is to effect the electronic traffic enforcement regime progressively in 2024.

It explained that the existing legislation does not allow the issuance of fixed penalty notices (FPNs) on traffic contraventions by electronic means. As a result, the bureau had to amend the law to allow Police to serve FPNs electronically, such as via SMS or email.

It added that modifying the law will also allow the Transport Department to collect mobile phone numbers or email addresses from vehicle owners and drivers for the purpose of traffic enforcement.

Issuing electronic FPNs in relation to traffic contraventions is one of the new initiatives to promote Smart Mobility in the Government’s Smart City Blueprint. The Government believes that such a move could increase traffic enforcement efficiency through the application of technology.

In the long run, the new regime is also expected to foster a better driving attitude, which is conducive to reducing traffic accidents and illegal parking, so as to enhance road safety and alleviate traffic congestion.

Police will launch a dedicated website and a mobile app for citizens to check their FPNs and settle such penalties via electronic payment. The existing mode of payment, however, will be retained.

Additionally, corresponding education and publicity efforts will be stepped up to help people to better understand the implementation of electronic FPNs.

Electronic Traffic Enforcement (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2023 will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first and second reading on December 13.