Butts County Sheriff Gary Long urges Georgia residents to oppose speed cameras in school zones, citing them as unconstitutional and ineffective.
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Summary of Sheriff Gary Long’s Opposition to School Zone Speed Cameras
Quick Overview
In a bold stance against the use of school zone speed cameras, Butts County Sheriff Gary Long has publicly voiced his opposition, calling for a complete ban on these devices across Georgia. He argues that they are unconstitutional and ineffective, urging residents to contact their legislators to support a bill aimed at eliminating them.
Key Points
- Unconstitutionality Claims: Sheriff Long asserts that school zone speed cameras are “unconstitutional as all get out,” emphasizing their role as revenue-generating tools rather than safety measures.
- Ineffectiveness: He contends that the cameras do not work effectively in Butts County, suggesting that their presence does not enhance safety for children.
- Legislative Action: Two bills are currently under consideration in the Georgia Senate: one seeks to regulate speed cameras, while House Bill 225 aims for a complete ban.
- Revenue Over Safety: Long criticizes the motives of camera companies, claiming they prioritize financial gain over public safety.
- Public Opinion: Despite potential public support for speed cameras, Long maintains that he will not allow them in his jurisdiction.
Detailed Breakdown
Unconstitutionality and Revenue Generation
Sheriff Long’s primary argument revolves around the constitutional implications of speed cameras. He believes these devices infringe on rights and serve primarily as revenue generators for municipalities. He stated, “They’re unconstitutional as all get out,” indicating a strong belief that their implementation is legally questionable.
Ineffectiveness of Speed Cameras
Long emphasizes that the speed cameras have not proven effective in reducing speeding or increasing safety around schools in Butts County. He claims, “they don’t work in this county and they’ll never be long as I’m sheriff,” highlighting his commitment to preventing their use regardless of public opinion.
Legislative Landscape
Currently, the Georgia Senate is deliberating two competing bills regarding school zone speed cameras. One bill seeks to impose regulations on their use, while House Bill 225 proposes a total ban. Long is advocating for the latter, urging citizens to engage with their state legislators in support of the ban.
Critique of Camera Companies
Long points out that companies promoting speed cameras often approach law enforcement with promises of increased revenue rather than improved safety outcomes. This financial focus raises concerns for Long, who believes that the true goal should be safeguarding children rather than generating income for local governments.
Public Sentiment and Law Enforcement Stance
Despite potential public backing for school zone speed cameras, Sheriff Long remains steadfast in his opposition. He asserts that even if there was widespread demand for their installation, he would not permit them within his jurisdiction, prioritizing his principles over public sentiment.
Notable Quotes & Data
- “They’re unconstitutional as all get out, but they don’t work in this county and they’ll never be long as I’m sheriff.”
- Long criticizes the approach of camera companies, stating they focus on revenue rather than safety improvements.
Context & Implications
Sheriff Long’s outspoken stance against school zone speed cameras reflects a broader debate over the effectiveness and ethical implications of automated enforcement technologies. His call for legislative action highlights concerns about governmental overreach and the prioritization of profit over public safety. As discussions around these bills progress, the outcome may set a precedent for how speed enforcement is managed across Georgia and potentially influence similar debates in other states.
In summary, Sheriff Gary Long’s opposition to school zone speed cameras raises critical questions about their constitutionality, effectiveness, and the motivations behind their implementation, prompting a necessary dialogue on public safety and law enforcement practices.