RI lawmakers debate speed camera bill

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI/AP) - Rhode Island lawmakers plan to take up a bill that would allow automated cameras to help police catch speeders.

The legislation, sponsored by Providence Democratic Rep. John McCauley, would create a procedure for using the speed enforcement cameras in the state.

The bill is one of several on the agenda for the House Finance Committee for Tuesday evening.

The bill would allow both the state and municipalities to the cameras, which are triggered by radar or other speed detection technology. They would take two pictures of speeding vehicles, including one of the rear license plate.

Some drivers we spoke with said they feel only police officers should be able to hand out a speeding ticket.

"I dont' think its very fair." said Mary Jane Nazareno.  "If you are caught by an officer, at least you can defend yourself."

Motorists would receive a ticket within two weeks of the camera recording a violation.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says 14 states and the District of Columbia currently use such cameras.