New school zone speed cameras have been actively monitoring driver behavior in Manatee County since the start of the academic year, with nearly $900,000 in fines issued over the past month, representing approximately 900 tickets.

Local officials emphasize that the primary goal of the program is student safety, particularly during early morning hours when visibility is limited. Bill Logan, a Manatee County spokesperson, stressed that the initiative is not about generating revenue but ensuring driver compliance and student protection.

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“This is just about safety. It’s not a money grab,” Logan explained. “We want to make sure people slow down and keep kids safe in school crossing zones.”

Manatee County Schools has strongly endorsed the program. Mike Barber, a district representative, praised the county commission for implementing this additional safety measure, calling it a crucial layer of protection for students and families.

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The fine structure is straightforward: drivers caught exceeding the school zone speed limit by more than 10 miles per hour receive a $100 ticket. The revenue is distributed as follows: $65 goes to the county, $23 to the state, and $12 to the school district. The school district intends to use its share to enhance school security and potentially improve transportation services.

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Prior to full implementation, the county provided a two-month grace period, issuing warnings to help the public adjust to the new system. This approach of gradual implementation has been adopted by several other Florida counties, including Sarasota, Pasco, and Hillsborough, reflecting a broader commitment to school zone safety.

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