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F I S C A L I M P A C T R E P O R T

SPONSOR Arnold-Jones

DATE TYPED 02/23/05 HB 999

SHORT TITLE Left-Turn Traffic Control Signal Sequencing

SB

ANALYST Ford

APPROPRIATION

Appropriation Contained Estimated Additional Impact Recurring

or Non-Rec

Fund

Affected

FY05

FY06

FY05

FY06

See Narrative

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Responses Received From

Department of Public Safety

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 999 establishes the sequencing of green lights and traffic signals. It requires that

when a traffic signal regulates traffic using a green arrow signal, the signal shall be sequenced so

that traffic proceeding on a green light through the intersection or turning right proceeds prior to

or at the same time as activation of the left turn arrow.

Significant Issues

The bill is probably not worded correctly as it seems to indicate that traffic in one direction could

have a green left turn arrow while oncoming traffic has a solid green. (See “Technical Issues.”)

Current law (Section 66-7-101 NMSA 1978) requires the state transportation commission to

adopt a manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic-control devices that shall,

to the extent possible, conform to the system then current as approved by the American associa-

tion of state highway officials.

This bill would create a statewide standard for the sequence of green lights. Generally, these de-

House Bill 999 -- Page 2

cisions would be made by the local traffic planner based on the circumstances at the specific in-

tersection.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

This bill will result in cost increases for the resequencing of signal lights not on compliance with

the new requirement. A study is needed before costs to the state and to municipalities can be de-

termined.

TECHNICAL ISSUES

The language should be re-worded to indicate that signal lights must be sequenced so that either:

•

Straight-through traffic in both directions is given the green before left turn traffic, or

•

Straight-through traffic and left-turn traffic in one direction is given the green light simul-

taneously

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

What is the problem with the current that necessitates the cost of resequencing traffic signals.

Is it appropriate to remove traffic signal decisions from local traffic planners.

EF/rs:yr