Toronto (Gaganjot): The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has officially enacted legislation prohibiting the utilization of automated speed enforcement cameras across the province. This contentious move eliminates the utilization of speed cameras in municipalities and school zones, a decision the government asserts aims to “restore fairness and transparency” in traffic enforcement.
Critics, however, argue that the prohibition will compromise road safety, particularly in areas where speed cameras have contributed to a reduction in collisions and protected pedestrians. Municipal leaders across Ontario have expressed frustration, stating that the decision removes an effective tool for enforcing speed limits and generating revenue for local safety initiatives.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria stated that the government’s focus will shift toward increasing police presence and public education campaigns on road safety instead. The legislation takes effect immediately, requiring municipalities to remove all existing speed cameras within 60 days.
Opposition parties and safety advocates have vowed to challenge the decision, denouncing it as a setback for community safety and accountability on Ontario’s roads.
