Legislative time wasted on traffic camera ban

I'm embarrassed to be an Iowan. The Iowa House passed an indefensible law banning traffic cameras. By comparable logic, we should ban video surveillance in stores and public places, and forbid forced ultrasound imaging for women considering abortion. (Each rests on government intrusion into people's lives.)

Among the ridiculous arguments to justify this law was the claim that video enforcement presumes a driver guilty until proven innocent. Nonsense. Drivers are presumed to be law-abiding until evidence shows the opposite. I don't want a government that sanctions breaking the law. I appreciate being safer on Interstate 380 and First Avenue.

If the cameras are removed, anyone injured or killed at a place cameras were removed can legitimately bring charges of reckless endangerment against the legislators and governor. Legal definition: “The accused person isn't required to intend the resulting or potential harm, but must have acted in a way that showed a disregard for the foreseeable consequences of the actions” (USlegal.com).

If this issue claims any more legislative attention, it's past time for adjournment. Legislators, do your jobs to make this a better, safer, well-educated place to live.

Roger Johanson

Lisbon