OOIDA Call to Action-Florida Members
December 27, 2007

Attention: Florida truckers! The Senate Transportation Committee is scheduled to consider a bill Jan. 8, 2008, that would allow red-light cameras to be posted throughout the state. It is extremely important to speak out on this revenue-generating mechanism.

Florida law neither permits nor forbids the use of red-light cameras to fine violators, but local governments have been reluctant to post them because of privacy and other concerns.

Supporters of photo enforcement say it encourages compliance with the law and saves lives by reducing collisions. But don’t be fooled. A study paid for by the U.S. Department of Transportation showed rear-end crashes actually increased in cities with red-light cameras, as motorists stopped abruptly at yellow lights to avoid tickets.

Not to mention the fact the motivation of every player in this deal is economics. Whether it’s the local jurisdiction or the manufacturer: That’s not reasonable justification for posting these cameras.

The Senate Transportation Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 8, in Room 37 of the Senate Office Building. If you are unable to attend and speak on the matter you are encouraged to please take time now to share your concerns with the committee members.

Contact information is listed below for the committee members.

Sen. Carey Baker, chairman
Phone: (850) 487-5014
E-mail: baker.carey.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Larcenia Bullard, vice chairwoman
Phone: (850) 487-5127
E-mail: bullard.larcenia.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Lee Constantine
Phone: (850) 487-5050
E-mail: constantine.lee.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Paula Dockery
Phone: (850) 487-5040
E-mail: dockery.paula.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Arthenia Joyner
Phone: (850) 487-5059
E-mail: joyner.arthenia.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Gwen Margolis
Phone: (850) 487-5121
E-mail: margolis.gwen.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Alex Villalobos
Phone: (850) 487-5130
E-mail: villalobos.alex.web@flsenate.gov

Sen. Daniel Webster
Phone: (850) 487-5047
E-mail: not listed