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Lawmaker Wants To Get Rid Of Red Light Cameras

DENVER (CBS4) - A Republican lawmaker hopes to eliminate cameras that catch people running red lights.

State Sen. Scott Renfroe says the cameras are only there to make cities money, but some argue they're a safety tool and it should be left to the cities to decide.

"I think safety ought to be our number one concern and I don't think red light cameras do that. I think it's more a revenue generator," Renfroe said.

Renfroe just introduced a bill to eliminate them.

"There are other ways that we can improve safety at intersections rather than red light cameras," he said.

Instead of the cameras he wants to extend the timing of yellow lights and have them all time out the same.

Mark Radtke with the Colorado Municipal League opposes the bill. He says the cameras shouldn't be up to state legislators.

"This is really a safety community issue, so its best left to city councils to make that decision," Radtke said.

Senate Bill 50 also questions whether photo radar vans are effective.

"I don't know if they really deter people from speeding," Renfroe said.

The only cameras the bill wouldn't touch would be on toll roads and highways.

Under state law the maximum fine for running a red light on camera is $75. The maximum for speeding is $40 and no points against a license.

It's true they generate money, but Radtke says more so the cameras work as a second set of eyes for law enforcement.

"It's really to get everyone to comply. There wouldn't be any tickets if everyone complied with the law," Radtke said.

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