In Decatur, Georgia, outside Beacon Hill Middle School, cameras are used to catch speeding drivers in school zones. These cameras are installed in many areas across the state to improve safety, especially for students. Supporters believe they help slow down cars and provide consistent enforcement, something local police often struggle with due to staffing issues.
However, some state lawmakers want to ban these cameras. They argue that the main purpose is to make money for local governments and private camera companies rather than to improve safety. While more than 20 states allow traffic cameras for speeding tickets, over 10 states have banned them. Georgia first approved speed cameras in school zones in 2018, but now lawmakers are reconsidering their use.
Arguments Against Speed Cameras
Some lawmakers believe speed cameras are unfair and should be removed entirely. Representative Dale Washburn, a Republican from Macon, is pushing for a complete ban. He claims many drivers have been wrongly ticketed, with reports of warning lights not working and people being fined even when school wasn’t in session.
Although these tickets don’t go on a driver’s record, unpaid fines can prevent drivers from renewing their vehicle registration. In 2024 alone, nearly 125,000 violations remained unpaid. Since 2019, these cameras have generated over $112 million in revenue across 54 Georgia cities and counties. Private companies operating the cameras take a portion of this money, raising concerns about financial motives.
Critics also worry about political ties. Two major camera companies, RedSpeed (based in the UK) and Blue Line Solutions (based in Tennessee), have donated about $500,000 to political campaigns in Georgia.
Calls for Reform Instead of a Ban
Instead of banning the cameras, other lawmakers want to regulate them more strictly. Senator Max Burns, a Republican from Sylvania, is proposing a bill requiring better warning signs and limiting when cameras can operate. Another bill, passed by the House with strong support, would also prevent the state from blocking vehicle registration over unpaid fines.
Do Speed Cameras Work?
Officials in Decatur argue that cameras make school zones safer. Mayor Patti Garrett noted that a student was hit in a hit-and-run incident, and a crossing guard was also struck before the cameras were installed.
Police Chief Scott Richards says a study showed speeding in school zones dropped by 92% after cameras were introduced. However, many drivers still speed, with 4,500 tickets issued in January alone.
Some believe the cameras are helpful when used correctly, while others see them as a way for companies to profit. The debate continues as lawmakers decide whether to ban or regulate them.
