New bill is one step closer to getting rid of red light cameras

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Red light cameras have been a controversial topic since they were first installed.

Sponsor of House Bill 4087, Richard Corcoran says the red light cameras are overrated. The House of Economic Affairs committee put forth the bill that says the camera's are grossly overestimated.

"What we want are red light cameras with these technological advances that protect people's constitutional freedoms," says Corcoran.

Red light cameras first popped up on the corners of busy intersections last year, and some say they like the extra patrol on the road.

"I never got a ticket because of one, but they do force you to really not run a red light," said David Ferguson, of West Palm Beach.

"I like them." says Mike Dowsn, another West Palm Beach resident. "I think they help control the intersections better, makes people honest."

Corcoran says that honesty comes at a price: your privacy.

"Anyone who would trade liberty for public safety deserves neither liberty or public safety," says Corcoran.

After a 10-8 vote by the House of Economic Affairs, the bill is one step closer to passing, and the possibly getting rid of them is welcome news to those who are opposed to them.

Many of the tickets issued to those drivers caught by red-light cameras have been tossed out or argued in court.

The $158 dollar fine is divided between local governments and the state.