Florida county issues nearly $600K in fines from school zone speeding cameras in less than 3 weeks

Manatee County, Florida, has taken a firm stance on school zone speeding by issuing nearly $600,000 in fines within just three weeks of activating its new camera system. This initiative commenced on November 1, 2024, following an extended warning phase that began at the start of the school year in August. In total, over 10,600 warnings were issued prior to the start of ticketing, but since enforcement began, more than 5,700 drivers have been fined $100 each for speeding in designated school zones. Public safety officials, including Sheriff Rick Wells, stress that the primary goal of the program is to safeguard children by encouraging compliance with speed limits. The cameras are operational 30 minutes before and after school hours, as well as during the school day.

Furthermore, the county receives $65 from each ticket, while the state receives $23. This program is part of a broader effort to promote awareness and responsibility among drivers in school zones. The use of technology in enforcing speed limits reflects a growing trend in communities aiming to prioritize child safety.