Arizona Republicans moving to put ban on photo radar in front of voters

PHOENIX — A group of Arizona Republicans, led by state Sen. Wendy Rogers, is working toward putting a potential ban on photo radars on the upcoming ballot.

On Tuesday, the state Senate Appropriations, Transportation and Technology Committee heard SCR 1004, which would put the power to decide whether to ban photo radar enforcement statewide in the hands of Arizona voters.

“Automated enforcement removes discretion, undermines due process and turns routine driving into a revenue stream,” Rogers said in a press release. “That’s not how law enforcement should work in Arizona. The resolution does not excuse dangerous driving or eliminate traffic enforcement.

“It ensures that enforcement decisions are made by trained law enforcement officers, not algorithms and contractors.”

Rogers is the sponsor of SCR 1004.

Why do Arizona Republicans want to put ban on photo radar in front of voters?

According to Rogers, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs has blocked legislation attempting to end photo radar use multiple times. Because of that, the only route lawmakers felt they had left was a ballot referral.

In addition, SCR 1004 is meant to address concerns Arizonans have regarding automated traffic enforcement. Rogers cited photo radars’ reliance on automated cameras and third-party vendors, lacking the accountability and judgment that law enforcement has.

She added that residents across the Grand Canyon State have described photo radar enforcement as unfair, intrusive and motivated by revenue rather than public safety.

If approved by the legislature, SCR 1004 would appear on the general election ballot in November.

“This issue has been debated, studied and litigated for years,” Rogers said. “The public is clear. If the governor won’t act, voters should.”

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