Bill Using State Traffic Cameras, Other Tech To Fight Graffiti Passes In House
Update 02/13 06:00:
A 1989 bill that proposed another approach to combating vandalism, using camera and drone technology, passed the Washington House of Representatives by a 96-1 vote. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Olympia, would have the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) use existing roadside cameras to identify and prosecute graffiti as a harmful social service crime.
The bill is now in the Senate for further discussion.
Original story :
The Washington House Transportation Committee on Monday approved a Republican-led bill that would allow Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) traffic cameras to be used to detect graffiti violators.
The House Amendment Bill of 1989 provides smarter technology to combat vandalism, including advanced spray drone technology and improved identification systems. (A PDF of the original invoice can be viewed here.)
If signed into law, the pilot program would allow WSDOT to use its own cameras to determine who is responsible for graffiti damage, with the exception of cameras dedicated to the enforcement of fees and workplace safety zones.
The bill directs WSDOT to work with other agencies to implement enforcement actions against repeat offenders and research anti-graffiti products and paints for effective use on road walls and other surfaces.
The House Transportation Committee approved the Republican-led bill on a 27-2 vote out of the committee.
"You drive up and down the road, there are tight spots, and it shouldn't be in our wildest dreams to have clean roads," said Rep. Dave Paul, D-Oak Harbor.
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The replacement bill goes a step further by incorporating modern technology into the graffiti reduction initiative.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of field trials for spray drone technology designed to effectively cover existing graffiti.
In addition, the congressman ordered research and testing of improved systems that can identify vandals.
Under the revised bill, WSDOT must test technology and system improvements with a special focus on the Puget Sound region of Interstate 5 (I-5) from Tacoma to Seattle and the North Spokane corridor.
The substitute bill also includes a Dec. 1 deadline requiring WSDOT to report to legislative committees on the pilot program. This includes funding details and program outcomes. The pilot program will expire on July 1, 2025.
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Representative. Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Olympia, stressed the need for a proactive and innovative approach to solving the persistent problem of graffiti vandalism.
"We are exploring technologies that not only effectively remove graffiti, but also improve our ability to identify and deter vandals," Barkis said at a recent committee hearing.
The bill now goes to the Regulatory Commission and will soon be voted on in plenary.
Matt Markovich frequently covers the state legislature and public politics for KIRO Newsradio. You can read more of Matt's stories here. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, or email him here.