Red light camera ban passes Illinois House committee

Proposed legislation banning red light cameras in certain Illinois communities is expected to be taken up by the state Legislature.

If passed, the legislation would take away the authority of non-home-rule municipalities to use red light cameras after Jan. 1, 2017.

The measure is in response to investigations about whether the devices harm drivers.

Rep. David McSweeney is the sponsor of the ban. The Republican from Barrington Hills says the cameras are seen as more of a revenue generator for communities than as a way to make intersections safer.

His legislation passed the House Cities and Villages Committee with 4-3 vote on Monday.

Eight Illinois counties currently have the authority to put red light traffic cameras at intersections.