Representative Rick Glazier (Dem.) is sponsoring H145, Phoebe’s Law, to create a pilot program to authorize speed camera in school and highway work zones.
The background on this may need some explaining. First, is the Civil Penalties and Forfeiture Fund. The details are in the linked PDF, but suffice to say the money in the CPFF $748 million, didn’t go to the schools as it should have. The money was spent and it was now up to the General Assembly to find a creative way to backpay this obligation.
Facing an incredibly unpopular tax, legislators brainstormed and realized that this speed camera could be a solution for their problem. They could fine the ‘evil speed violators’ $150-$250 apiece to generate the millions they owed. If anyone dare oppose this measure, they’d be labeled as reckless and indifferent to child safety.
Glazier proposes that traffic cameras be installed in 15 school zones and 15 highway work zones for 15 year. Conveniently, this legislation also prohibits any local government from operating an “electronic speed measuring system,” limiting state government facing competition from their local counterparts.
I’m skeptical that the speedcams will improve safety outcomes. Also, the pervasiveness of ‘Big Brother’ in the form of traffic surveillance cameras is particularly alarming and brings privacy concerns. Electronic and mechanical equipment do malfunction and there is no simple means of challenging the citation. There is no ‘presumption of innocence’ nor is there an opportunity to ‘confront one’s accuser.’
Automated traffic cameras have been used the state, including Wake County municipalities of Cary and Raleigh where they’ve faced open criticism. In fact, it’s interesting that NC Senator Don East (Rep.) is sponsoring a bill to outlaw those red light cameras altogether. He argues that the stoplight cameras should be eliminated because drivers who are issued a ticket should be able to question the officer about the violation.
Outlaw Red Light Camera Systems S187 has already passed the Senate and is currently in the House Judiciary Committee.
I ask you to contact your state legislators and urge they oppose Phoebe’s Law H145 and support Outlaw Red Light Camera Systems S187.
