Iowa needs uniform rules for automated traffic enforcement cameras

Automated traffic enforcement cameras are back on the legislative agenda in Iowa. But rather than pursuing a ban on cameras, it’s more likely lawmakers will consider statewide regulations governing their use.

One bill, Senate File 2078, would limit speed camera fines to instances when a motorist is exceeding the posted speed limit by 20 mph or more. It would also cap the amount of fines collected at 250 percent of all municipal infraction and scheduled fines collected in the previous year.

A second bill, Senate File 2062, would require communities to collect data justifying the need for cameras to improve roadway safety before installing cameras. As of Jan. 1, 2023, all communities with cameras installed before July 1, 2022 would be required to report safety data.

With cameras already in place in several municipalities across the state, including Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Sioux City and Council Bluffs, and with more cameras likely to pop up in other cities and towns, we think it’s reasonable to set out some statewide ground rules. Although we’re generally for local control, cameras on state highways and interstates don’t just impact local residents.

Bills capping revenue and requiring safety data would seem to fit with the arguments made locally to justify the use of speed cameras in Cedar Rapids. Local leaders have long insisted that the cameras are needed to keep roads safe, particularly the S-curve on I-380 through downtown Cedar Rapids. They’ve made a compelling case, based on crash data, that the cameras have made that stretch safer, both for motorists and law enforcement, and should have little problem making that case to the state.

Local leaders also have insisted that collecting revenue is not objective of the camera program. So limiting that revenue shouldn’t be an issue.

That said, if these bills or other regulations move forward, lawmakers should not completely ignore local circumstances. Although a fine for 20 mph or more might make sense on some stretches of highway, it’s far tougher to argue Cedar Rapids cameras should allow a driver to cruise through the S-curve at 74 mph unscathed. Currently, Cedar Rapids fines drivers speeding at 12 mph over the limit or more.

So there are details yet to be worked out, and it’s still early in the legislative process. We think lawmakers can strike a balance that brings uniformity to traffic camera programs while still making Iowa roadways safer.

(319) 398-8262; todd.dorman@thegazette.com