Congress May Consider Banning D.C. Traffic Cameras

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A Republican congressman from Michigan may propose a ban on speed and red-light enforcement cameras in the District of Columbia.

Rep. Kerry Bentivolio has circulated a bill that would strip the city government of its authority to use the cameras. A spokesman for Bentivolio says the bill has not yet been finalized but that the final version will "protect the people's rights, not take them away."

The move was criticized by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, who represents the district in Congress, and other advocates for self-rule for the district.

Red-light and speed cameras are widespread in the district and generated $85 million in revenue during the last fiscal year. Mayor Vincent Gray argues that the cameras make the city safer, but critics say the fines are too high.

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