The fight against the City of Houston red light cameras began in 1995 when the State Legislature began hearing testimony on the feasibility of red light cameras; the push came from the
Bill White Administration of the City of Houston. Those that witnessed the testimony were skeptical of the City’s chances of passage. Most expert testimony proved that
the cameras do not increase safety, but only serve to raise revenue, in effect a hidden tax.
But, as is all too common in today's politics, promises were made and deals were cut and the city was allowed to implement red light cameras with a few provisions:
* A study must be conducted by an independent source to determine the effectiveness of electronic surveillance at public intersections.
This was done, it is known as the Stein Report, conducted by the prestigious local Rice University. A link to that study can be found on our website at the
Yellow Caution link.
That study concluded that red lights DO NOT make intersections safer, and in fact, rear end collisions increase.
* The City must make it clear on the notification of violation that the owner of the car cannot have a warrant issued for failure to pay this administrative fee.
The city has not yet followed the State Law in this regard.
Those of us who have organized and formed Citizens Against Red Light Cameras believe it is time to hold our city accountable. The current Mayor and
City Council are not the ones responsible for the introduction of the red light cameras,
but it is their duty to examine the facts and let the people be heard.
We are currently holding a petition drive, by using our
Print Your
Petition link, you will be taken to a page that will allow you to print
out a personalized petition, please sign it and mail it to us.
Once we have received enough signatures to assure the City
cannot block our request, we will submit the names and
demand a ballot initiative that will allow City of Houston voters to be heard in November.
Remember, government works for us; it is their sworn duty to respect the will of the people.
Citizens Against Red Light Cameras 1701 Lubbock Houston, Texas 77007
We encourage you to join our group and keep abreast of our continuing efforts and ways you can help to make this petition drive a success. Please
use the following links to join us:
