Representative Ed Perlmutter, a Colorado Democrat, argues that the cameras are primarily focused on generating revenue, and there is little evidence of any public-safety benefit.
His bill, the “Prohibited Automated Enforcement Act of 2015,” would prohibit state or local governments from implementing automated traffic enforcement for law-enforcement purposes, except near schools or in construction zones.
“Police officers are the only sure way to apprehend seriously impaired, reckless or other dangerous drivers,” he wrote in a statement. “All of us are concerned with reducing accidents and reckless driving but it is not evident photo radar cameras improve highway safety, reduce accidents or improve traffic flow.”
The legislator points to a 2013 University of Tennessee study as evidence that supports the move. The study did not find any consensus that cameras bring a clear improvement in traffic safety. Other research has found a decrease in side collisions, but an increase in rear-end crashes.
Perlmutter’s bill is only in the beginning stages, introduced two weeks ago and currently lacking cosponsors. It is unclear if the legislation will receive more support and move forward to a formal vote.
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