MPs have approved legislation that allows speed devices to be used as evidence in court.

The Road Traffic Amendment and Validation Bill 2025 was read a second time and passed without objection in the House of Assembly on Friday.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, told the House that police have used speed detection devices at length — but previous provisions in the Road Traffic Act 1947 did not technically authorise their use.

The amendment authorises the devices to be deployed by police and traffic officers, as well as rendering their evidence admissible in court.

Mr Weeks said: “Additionally, the Bill includes a validation clause to retroactively confirm that all speed detection devices previously used by the Bermuda Police Service are deemed to have been lawfully approved, and that all tickets and prosecutions relying on such devices are valid.”

He added: “By eliminating an existing ambiguity, it strengthens the enforceability of speeding offences, supports the integrity of past and ongoing prosecutions and allows our legal framework to keep pace with the evolution of traffic enforcement technologies.”

Dwayne Robinson, the Shadow Minister of Tourism, Transport and Culture, suggested that the legislation had come late and should have been implemented before police started using such devices.

Mr Weeks replied: “This Bill is a responsible and transparent legislative response to a longstanding legislative gap.

“It affirms that devices by the BPS were used in good faith and ensures that future enforcement is conducted under clear statutory authority.”