A House committee on Thursday gave a green light to a repeal of the statewide law approved last year that lets cities put up red light cameras.
The bill (HB 4087), sponsored by Rep. Richard Corcoran, R-New Port Richey, passed despite several speakers from local governments who spoke in favor of continuing to allow the cameras.
“I can give you some hard data that shows these cameras are working,” said Kathy Till, an Apopka city commissioner.
The measure was narrowly approved 10-8 in the Economic Affairs Committee, with Republicans split on the issue. Most Democrats opposed it.
The loss of the $158 fines would cost state and local governments, though legislative staff say its impossible to calculate the exact amount.
Red light cameras in place since July of last year have resulted in cities remitting $8.4 million so far to the state. More than $7 million of that is general revenue. About another $7.6 million has gone to local governments as a result of red light tickets.
Over the past several weeks, red light cameras have been installed at ten locations throughout Orange County and red light runners began receiving citations and fines in late February.
News Service of Florida
