Speed Cameras Banned on Louisiana Interstates

Gov. Bobby Jindal has agreed to ban speed cameras and other automated speed enforcement devices on Louisiana’s interstates.

Sulphur Rep. Mike Danahay, a Democrat, sponsored the prohibition bill, saying it was in response to a private company approaching municipalities to introduce speed cameras on interstate highways.

The method uses a hand-held device to record speeds, with violators sent tickets through the mail. At least one town in southwest Louisiana, the town of Welsh, had announced plans for such a program.

Critics of the programs say they don’t give people due process rights and seem to prioritize generating income over public safety.

Jindal signed the prohibition bill into law late last week. It takes effect Jan. 1.