Starting Feb. 1, Florida drivers will pay $25 more for speeding tickets and $10 more for running a red light or not wearing a seat belt.
To alleviate a $2.4 billion state budget deficit, Florida House and Senate members passed a budget package Thursday that charges traffic violators more in fines and fees.
Jaryn Emhof, a spokeswoman for the Senate president, said the increased ticket prices will generate $15.9 million this year and $63.1 million next year.
The increase in fines will prevent budget cuts within the state court system, distributing funds between the state attorneys, state courts and public defenders.
"The bill functions at a dual purpose," Emhof said. "Our courts will run smoother and our roads will be safer."
A $25 increase for drivers going between 15 and 19 mph over the speed limit will push the fine from $125 to $150.
The $150 fine for going between 20 and 29 mph over the limit will increase to $175.
An extra $10 will be tacked onto all moving and nonmoving traffic violations, such as not wearing a seat belt or driving with an expired license.
But in addition to these charges, Florida lawmakers have added other fees to the tickets, such as a $10 assessment fee and a $12.50 administrative charge that was implemented in 2008.
While the generated money will serve the court system, authorities do not believe the fees will have any effect on road safety.
Lt. Dan Brinsko, of the traffic unit in the Alachua County Sheriff's Office, said fines and fees rise almost every year, but drivers rarely adjust their habits.
"Enforcement makes roads safer," he said, "not necessarily increased ticket prices."
If state lawmakers want to prevent Floridians from speeding, they should invest more in speed trailers and other equipment, Brinsko said.
