(1) Tolls may be collected by any system that identifies the correct toll and collects the payment. Systems may include manual cash collection, electronic toll collection, and photo monitoring systems.

     (a) "Electronic toll collection system" means a system of collecting tolls or charges that is capable of charging the account of the toll patron the appropriate toll or charge by electronic transmission from the motor vehicle to the toll collection system, which information is used to charge the appropriate toll or charge to the patron's account. The department shall adopt rules that allow an open standard for automatic vehicle identification transponders used for electronic toll collection to be compatible with other electronic payment devices or transponders from the Washington state ferry system, other public transportation systems, or other toll collection systems to the extent that technology permits. The rules must also allow for multiple vendors providing electronic payment devices or transponders as technology permits.

     (b) "Photo monitoring system" means a vehicle sensor installed to work in conjunction with an electronic toll collection system in a toll facility that automatically produces one or more photographs, one or more microphotographs, a videotape, or other recorded images of each vehicle at the time it is used or operated within a toll facility.

     (c) No photograph, digital photograph, microphotograph, videotape, or other recorded image may be used for any purpose other than toll enforcement, nor retained longer than necessary to verify that tolls are paid, or to enforce toll evasion violations.

     (2) The department shall adopt rules to govern toll collection.

[2004 c 230 § 2.]