President Nayib Bukele announced that he will submit a proposed decree to the Legislative Assembly to forgive 100% of traffic fines issued under the new traffic law, which was approved on December 20, 2024. The fines eligible for forgiveness are those issued between December 20, 2024, and January 26, 2025.
The president explained that this decision was made to dispel any misconceptions that the government was using the new law and its fines as a means of generating revenue. «Nothing could be further from the truth,» Bukele said. He pointed out that, while the country has made significant strides in reducing violence, traffic accidents—particularly those involving irresponsible driving—have become the leading cause of death in El Salvador. Issues like alcohol consumption, texting while driving, speeding, and ignoring traffic signals are contributing to the problem.
He expressed concern that most of the victims of road accidents are pedestrians, public transport users, and other drivers who follow the rules. «This cannot continue. We must correct it,» Bukele emphasized, noting that previous attempts to address the issue through advice and awareness had not been successful. «Now we have to be stricter.»
The president highlighted that since the implementation of the new traffic laws, traffic accidents and fatalities caused by dangerous drivers have already decreased.
For those who have already paid a fine, Bukele assured that a mechanism for full refunds will be announced next week. «Consider it a trial month. Now, starting Monday, all fines issued will be collected, and there will be no more forgiveness,» he said.
The president also clarified that, while fines will be forgiven, criminal proceedings will not be affected. Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol, for example, will lose their license and face other legal consequences, but they will not be required to pay the fines they received.
Bukele emphasized that these measures are aimed at making El Salvador safer and ultimately transforming the country into a «first-world» nation. «From today, simply comply with the traffic regulations, and you will not have to pay any fines,» he concluded.