Cities’ use of automated cameras is under the gun in the Missouri statehouse. Several efforts before lawmakers seek to discourage their use throughout the state.
The devices, which are used in more than two dozen Missouri towns, snap pictures of red-light runners’ or speeders’ vehicles. A ticket is mailed to the owner of the vehicle, regardless of who was driving at the time.
One House bill is intended to discourage communities from using red-light cameras as a “money grab.” Sponsored by Rep. Will Kraus, R-Lee’s Summit, it would require cities using the technology to route all fines collected to the local school district. Typically, the revenue is put into the general fund.
Another bill would also mandate where revenues are routed. Sponsored by Rep. Bob Nance, R-Excelsior Springs, it specifies that half of the money generated from fines go directly to the Missouri Department of Transportation.
Cities that use the cameras include Arnold, Columbia, Florissant, Kansas City, St. Peters and Springfield.
Out of concern that the cameras are unconstitutional, Sen. Jim Lembke, R-Mehlville, has offered another bill that would prohibit local governments from using photo systems at intersections to ticket drivers.
Lembke said part of the problem with the cameras is that they can’t prove who’s driving the vehicle. In addition, “many people argue this method of traffic enforcement disregards a person’s Fifth Amendment rights and forces self-incrimination,” he said in a statement. “This is an example of big government and ‘Big Brother’ at its worst.”
Supporters of the equipment say it acts as a deterrent and helps snare red-light-running drivers who otherwise might not get caught. Opponents question the claim that cameras are intended solely to keep people safe.
Others, including the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, say the focus on traffic cameras ignores the more logical and reasoned approach to roads and traffic.
“The motivation shouldn’t ever be stopping vehicles. You are taking the discussion away from where it should be, and that should be synchronizing lights. The goal should be to keep traffic moving in as safe a manner as possible,” said OOIDA Executive Vice President Todd Spencer.
Spencer also said that communities should be pursuing “intelligent traffic lights that actually monitor traffic and are triggered by traffic flow.”
Lembke’s bill – SB637 – is in the Senate Transportation Committee. Nance’s bill – HB1626 – and Kraus’ bill – HB1229 – are awaiting assignment to committee.
To view other legislative activities of interest for Missouri in 2010, click here.
– By Keith Goble, state legislative editor
Editor’s Note: Please share your thoughts with us about the legislation included in this story. Comments may be sent to statelegislativedesk@ooida.com.
