REPORT: The Case Against Red Light Cameras (June 2008)

In 2005, the RI General Assembly enacted a law authorizing municipalities to use “red light camera” technology. However, because of legislative concerns about the technology, the statute contained a July 2008 sunset clause. Thus far, Providence remains the only municipality to have made use of the law, and it has been vigorously lobbying for permanent use of the cameras. This report argues that it would be a mistake for the state to repeal the sunset clause.