House sends speed-camera measure to governor

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois lawmakers have sent Gov. Pat Quinn legislation that would allow Chicago to monitor school-zone speeding with cameras.

The measure is an important item on Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s agenda. He says it will save lives.

The cameras would monitor traffic near schools and send $100 tickets to motorists in cars going more than 5 mph over the limit. The ticket would not be considered a moving violation.

The House approved the measure Wednesday 64-50. Quinn’s office did not immediately say whether he supports it.

Critics compare the cameras to similar machines in populated areas that catch those ignoring red lights. They say they don’t improve safety but produce huge revenues for local governments. They also question the reliability of the photos.