Arizona Drivers Speak Out on New Cameras and Taxes

Arizona voters have approved Proposition 319, a constitutional amendment that bans new speed and red-light camera programs and requires communities with existing systems to seek voter approval in 2027.

Measure limits photo enforcement programs

The ballot measure will restrict state and local governments from installing or operating automated photo enforcement systems used to issue speeding and red-light citations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety lists 14 Arizona cities with red-light or speed cameras.

Existing programs will not automatically end, but the cities operating them must win public approval in 2027 to continue using the systems.

Supporters of Proposition 319 argued that automated enforcement is an unfair revenue-generating tool. The organization backing the measure said photo enforcement disproportionately affects working drivers, with first-time, low-level violations potentially resulting in fines of $250.

Phoenix program drew thousands of citations

The Goldwater Institute, which supported the measure, cited Phoenix’s photo radar program as an example of the financial impact of automated enforcement. After the city revived the program in February, the organization said the court had issued more than 65,000 citations during the first few months. Drivers had paid approximately $1.67 million, with additional cases still pending.

According to the institute, Phoenix’s contractor receives $612,000 annually for 17 enforcement units, along with $20 per citation. The remaining funds support future traffic safety programs.

Goldwater Institute senior counsel Scott Freeman said communities should also examine road design, lighting and signage when drivers appear to be confused at intersections.

Supporters cite crash reductions

Opponents of the measure argued that photo enforcement improves compliance and reduces crashes. Tempe Mayor Corey Woods said the cameras have influenced his own driving and that city data showed a reduction of more than 21% in fatal crashes and collisions.

Supporters also argued that police officers may exercise discretion when stopping drivers for speeding, while automated systems issue citations whenever a vehicle exceeds a preset threshold.

Proposition 319 passed as Arizona voters considered broader questions involving traffic safety, transportation funding and government use of surveillance technology. The measure is expected to reshape how cities and state agencies enforce speed and red-light violations across the state.