Senators Reject Amendment To Speed Camera Bill

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Senate has narrowly rejected an amendment that would have altered when speed cameras can be used to ticket drivers in work zones.

The body rejected the amendment, which would have changed a bill designed to allow people other than police officers to sign tickets recorded by cameras, by a 23 to 22 vote Thursday.

Sponsored by Howard County Republican state Sen. Allan Kittleman, the amendment would have mandated that speed cameras
need not be used in construction zones when no one is working.

Opponents of the amendment argued that the cameras, which were legalized statewide in 2009, are necessary even when workers are not present because narrowed lanes and adjustments to traffic flow make roads dangerous.

The bill awaits a final vote from the full Senate.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)