Ban The Cams.
Republican Rep. Dale Washburn has introduced a bill that would force cities and counties across the state to shut their speed cameras down. He says more than half of the House of Representatives are co-signing.
Read the full article at Fox5Atlanta
Summary of the Fight to Ban School Zone Speed Cameras in Georgia
Quick Overview
In a significant legislative move, Georgia State Representative Dale Washburn has introduced a bill aimed at banning automated school zone speed cameras across the state. With over half of the House co-signing the proposal, this initiative has ignited a contentious debate over traffic safety, governmental revenue, and the implications for law enforcement practices.
Key Points
- Legislative Action: Rep. Dale Washburn filed a bill that would mandate the shutdown of school zone speed cameras, effectively reversing a 2018 law that permitted their use.
- Public Response: The bill has garnered support from a majority of the House, with Washburn claiming 100 co-signers, signaling a strong legislative push.
- Opposition from Camera Companies: The proposal faces significant opposition from camera companies that have increased their lobbying efforts in response to Washburn’s initiative.
- Safety vs. Revenue Debate: Proponents of the cameras argue they enhance safety for children, while opponents, including Washburn, claim they serve primarily as revenue-generating tools for local governments.
- Previous Investigations: Past investigations by the FOX 5 I-Team revealed issues with the accuracy of speed cameras, leading to erroneous tickets and public frustration.
Detailed Breakdown
Legislative Intent
Rep. Washburn’s bill seeks to eliminate the automated systems that photograph speeding vehicles and issue citations by mail. He argues that these systems are “designed to entrap” drivers and contribute to what he describes as “taxation by citation.” The bill intends to dismantle the infrastructure that has generated millions in fines for local governments.
Public and Political Support
Washburn’s proposal has gained traction, claiming the backing of over 100 co-signers in the House, which is significant given that only 91 votes are needed for passage. This level of support suggests a growing discontent among lawmakers regarding the current speed camera systems, which have been criticized for unfair ticketing practices.
Opposition and Counterarguments
Opponents of the bill, including advocacy groups like Give School Kids a Brake, argue that the cameras are necessary for ensuring the safety of children near schools. Ashley Rose-Toomer, the group’s executive director, contends that the voices of those who violate speed limits are being prioritized over the safety of students and their parents. She emphasizes that placing officers at every school zone daily would not be cost-effective.
Investigative Findings
The FOX 5 I-Team has uncovered numerous instances of unfair ticketing linked to speed cameras, including misalignments between camera operations and school zone lights, resulting in thousands of invalid tickets. These findings have prompted local governments to issue reimbursements totaling over half a million dollars to affected drivers.
Notable Quotes & Data
- “This is about revenue by citation. It is taxation by citation, and it is wrong,” said Rep. Washburn, highlighting the perceived misuse of the speed camera systems.
- The FOX 5 I-Team’s investigations revealed that erroneous tickets were issued in cities like Jonesboro, Riverdale, and Atlanta, prompting significant public outcry and financial restitution.
Context & Implications
The ongoing debate surrounding school zone speed cameras in Georgia reflects broader national conversations about traffic enforcement, public safety, and government accountability. The outcome of Washburn’s bill could set a precedent for how automated traffic enforcement is governed in the state and potentially influence similar discussions in other regions. As the legislative battle unfolds, the stakes remain high for both proponents advocating for children’s safety and opponents who view the cameras as a financial burden on drivers.
In conclusion, the fight against school zone speed cameras in Georgia encapsulates a complex intersection of safety, revenue, and legislative power, with significant implications for local governance and traffic enforcement practices.