HR0027 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0027 LRB099 04046 MST 24064 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, A study commissioned by the Chicago Tribune concerning the City of Chicago's red light camera program has concluded that the cameras do not reduce crashes that result in injury; and

WHEREAS, The study found that there was a 22% increase in rear-end collisions; and

WHEREAS, The study found that the 3-second yellow light times commonly used in Chicago are too short even for drivers observing the speed limit; the City continues to ignore a growing body of research suggesting that adding half a second to yellow light times would give drivers a better chance of stopping safely; such a change could bring down the number of rear-end crashes and red light violations; other cities and states that use red light cameras have chosen to err on the side of caution and safety and have lengthened yellow light times; and

WHEREAS, On several occasions, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel's administration has used flawed statistics to defend the City's red light camera program, and the program has been besieged with reports concerning corruption and mismanagement; and

WHEREAS, Chicago has the nation's largest red light camera system and the shortest legally allowable yellow light times, a unique and dangerous combination that makes rear-end crashes more likely throughout the city; continuing to utilize these cameras with such a short yellow light time knowingly and willingly puts the citizens of Chicago at risk; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge the City of Chicago to immediately dismantle all traffic cameras within its borders; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge all funds derived from said cameras to be deposited into a trust to aid in job training, education, and healthcare; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be presented to Mayor Emanuel and all members of the Chicago City Council.