Public Review of Road Traffic Regulations Amendment Concludes Amid Debate
The public consultation period for the proposed 36th amendment to Austria's Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) has reached its conclusion, with a total of 79 responses submitted by individuals and organizations. The draft legislation has prompted considerable discussion, particularly regarding its plan to introduce automated access control using cameras in designated urban and municipal zones.
Key elements of the amendment include the use of video surveillance to monitor adherence to traffic restrictions in specific areas. While some stakeholders acknowledge the potential benefits for traffic management and urban safety, concerns have been raised about increased bureaucracy and the implications for data privacy. Critics argue that the proposed use of cameras could create unnecessary administrative hurdles and raise significant privacy issues for citizens.
Among the main opponents of the automated surveillance proposal are motoring associations and privacy advocates. The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) has expressed reservations about the likelihood of expanded restrictions and penalties, warning that an overly complex regulatory environment could develop. Similarly, the legal affairs department of the Austrian Economic Chamber has highlighted the importance of clear and consistent legal frameworks, while advocating for less intrusive alternatives such as physical barriers or other forms of non-digital oversight. The chamber also emphasized the necessity of making the amendment as straightforward as possible for businesses and maintaining proportionality in its enforcement. There is apprehension that the new measures could serve as a precursor to broader urban tolling systems, further complicating city traffic regulation.
Human rights and privacy organizations have also voiced apprehensions. Amnesty International has stressed the need to prevent any use of video data for law enforcement purposes beyond traffic regulation, noting the risks of surveillance infringing on individual freedoms and potentially affecting the right to assemble. The privacy group epicenter.works has cited research indicating that less invasive and more cost-effective measures for traffic calming exist, and criticized the current draft for failing to include adequate safeguards for fundamental rights and data protection.
Conversely, some organizations have welcomed the proposed changes. The Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV) supports the use of automated monitoring, suggesting it will improve compliance with traffic rules and enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in sensitive urban areas. The Austrian Transport Club (VCÖ) has similarly backed the amendment, viewing automation as a helpful tool for municipalities seeking to strengthen traffic calming efforts.
Additional feedback has come from a variety of institutions, including the Red Cross, the Austrian Ombudsman Board, and several regional governments, all of which participated in the consultation process. Besides the camera surveillance measures, the draft amendment also proposes relocating electric mopeds and e-scooters away from bicycle lanes and introducing a mandatory helmet requirement for users under 16 years old operating e-scooters and mini-scooters.
The review process has highlighted both the potential benefits and challenges of the proposed amendment, with opinions divided on the most effective and rights-respecting approach to urban traffic management.