Illinois House passes limited ban on red light cameras

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois House has approved a proposed ban on red light cameras in certain communities.

The legislation would take away the authority of non-home-rule municipalities to use red light cameras after Jan. 1, 2017. It was approved Wednesday with a vote of 79-26. The measure now heads to the Senate.

The proposal came in response to investigations into whether the devices hurt drivers.

Bill sponsor Republican Rep. David McSweeney of Barrington Hills says the cameras are seen as a revenue generator for communities instead a way to make intersections safer.

McSweeney says there’s “growing evidence that red light cameras actually do more harm than good.”

Eight Illinois counties currently have the authority to use red light traffic cameras.