The Electronic Traffic Enforcement (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2023 was gazetted today (December 8) for establishing a legal framework to allow the Hong Kong Police Force (the Police) to use electronic means to serve penalty tickets against traffic offences or contraventions.
The issuance of fixed penalty notices (FPNs) of traffic contraventions by electronic means is one of the new initiatives to promote "Smart Mobility" in the Government's Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong with a view to increasing the overall efficiency of traffic enforcement through the application of technology. In the long run, the new regime is expected to foster better driving attitude among drivers, which is conducive to reducing traffic accidents and illegal parking, so as to enhance road safety and alleviate traffic congestion.
A spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said, "The existing legislation does not allow the issuance of FPNs of traffic contraventions by electronic means. Hence, we have to amend the legislation to allow the Police to serve FPNs by electronic means, including SMS or email, and to allow the Transport Department to collect mobile phone numbers or email addresses from vehicle owners and drivers for traffic enforcement purpose. Our target is to effect the electronic traffic enforcement regime progressively in 2024."
The Police will also launch a dedicated website and a mobile phone application for the new initiative to enable registered vehicle owners and drivers to check their FPNs and take relevant follow-up actions anytime, anywhere, including the settlement of fixed penalties by means of electronic payment. To assist the public in adapting to the new initiative, the existing mode of paying fixed penalties will be retained. Before the implementation of the new initiative, the Police will enhance education and publicity efforts to help registered vehicle owners and drivers better understand the implementation of electronic FPNs.
The Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Transport and the Transport Advisory Committee were consulted on the legislative proposal. Members generally supported the proposed arrangements.
The Bill will be introduced into the LegCo for First and Second Reading on December 13.
Ends/Friday, December 8, 2023
Issued at HKT 11:53