Louisiana Could Soon Outlaw Speed and Redlight Cameras

SHREVEPORT, LA - Many Louisiana cities have camera systems in place to enforce speed zone laws. Others use the cameras for redlight enforcement. Shreveport has cameras in place in many school zones. Violators get tickets sent in the mail.

But one state senator wants these camera systems banned. Alan Seabaugh of Shreveport has proposed a bill to "prohibit the use of automated speed enforcement devices, mobile speed cameras, and red light cameras."

Seabaugh tells KEEL News he believes these tickets are unconstitutional. He says you are presumed guilty before you ever go to court. He also objects to the involvement in private companies who administer these programs. He says they take away a part of the fines that would typically be used for local agencies like our Public Defenders, Clerk of Courts, District Attorneys and others.

This measure would repeal the current law which lets cities use these speed and redlight enforcement cameras. The change would also outlaw the school zone cameras now in use all around Shreveport.

Senator Seabaugh says he has heard from leaders in one town in south Louisiana where these cameras generate $900,000 a month in traffic citations. He says that is ridiculous and way too much. He says this take money from the cities and towns and sends if off to these private companies who manage the speed camera programs. He says that is money that needs to stay in Louisiana.

Seabaugh is optimistic he can get this bill passed during the regular session of the legislature which begins on Monday, March 11 and must end no later than 6:00 pm on Monday, June 3.