2/6/06-A bill that would have expanded speed radar use throughout the state has died.
HB355, sponsored by Rep. Rita Martinson, R-Madison, remained in committee at the deadline to advance from their respective panels to the full chamber.
Currently, Mississippi restricts the purchase and use of radar speed detection equipment to the Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol and the counties of Harrison and Lowndes. Law enforcement agencies in cities with populations less than 2,000 are prohibited from buying or using radar.
The bill would have allowed the sheriff’s deputies in any county with a population of 70,000 or more to use radar on public streets, roads and highways of the county lying outside the limits of an incorporated city.
However, a similar bill – SB2442 – remains active.

1/11/06-Rep. Rita Martinson, R-Madison, has introduced a bill that would expand the use of radar throughout the state.
Currently, Mississippi restricts the purchase and use of radar speed detection equipment to the Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol and the counties of Harrison and Lowndes. Law enforcement agencies in cities with populations less than 2,000 are prohibited from buying or using radar.
HB355 would allow the sheriff’s deputies in any county with a population of 70,000 or more to use radar on public streets, roads and highways of the county lying outside the limits of an incorporated city.
The bill is in the House Transportation Committee. For bills status, call (601) 359-3719.