The following is a press release when the LA Police Commission decided to end the ATS SCAMERAS in Los Angeles: 

http://arc.asm.ca.gov/member/65/?p=article&sid=164&id=248708

Assemblyman Cook Hails Unanimous Decision to End Los Angeles' Red Light Camera Program
John Sobel 916-319-2065
 
SACRAMENTO - Assemblyman Cook hailed Monday's decision by the Los Angeles Police Commission to end the City of Los Angeles' red light camera program. The Los Angeles Police Commission voted 5-0 to deny the renewal of the city's contract with American Traffic Solutions to operate red light cameras. This decision will end the use of red light cameras in California's largest city unless the City Council votes to overturn the decision within five days.

Several commissioners expressed skepticism regarding claims that the red light cameras have done anything to increase safety, following a detailed report from Safer Streets LA Executive Director Jay Beeber rebutting claims that the cameras had improved public safety. Additionally, commissioners were concerned that there was no penalty for motorists who refuse to pay their camera tickets, creating a situation where those who refuse to pay the tickets were actually rewarded.

Over the past few years, growing opposition to red light camera programs has led to dozens of California cities abandoning the systems. Opposition has been largely fueled by mounting evidence that the cameras are installed primarily for revenue generation purposes. Fines for red light violations can lead to tickets of over $450. In fact, between 2004 and 2010, Los Angeles issued over 183,000 tickets worth more than $80 million. Spiraling ticket prices come at the same time that new studies have raised serious doubts about claims that camera use improves public safety. Last year, a Los Angeles City audit of its automated traffic enforcement program found no credible evidence that safety had improved at intersections monitored by red light cameras.

Cook stated, "This is the biggest sign yet that it's time to end red light camera programs in California. I'd like to applaud Safer Streets LA and other grassroots groups such as Highwayrobbery.net for leading this fight. Although my camera legislation was stalled in committee this year, I intend to introduce legislation next year to put a stop to red light cameras in California once and for all."Cook, stated, "I'm disappointed that this bill didn't pass, but I will continue working on this important issue. As long as cities view red light cameras as a revenue generator, the temptation will exist to game the system in ways that maximize revenue, rather than safety. We can't afford to wait for a piecemeal solution to this growing problem."

Cook, stated, "I'm disappointed that this bill didn't pass, but I will continue working on this important issue. As long as cities view red light cameras as a revenue generator, the temptation will exist to game the system in ways that maximize revenue, rather than safety. We can't afford to wait for a piecemeal solution to this growing problem."

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