Khaberni - The Government of Ontario in Canada has passed a controversial bill prohibiting municipalities from installing speed cameras, as part of what is known as the “Building a More Competitive Economy” Act (Bill 56).
The bill was introduced on October 20 under the claim that it aims to reduce bureaucratic procedures. However, one of its provisions included a ban on speed cameras, which Ford previously described as a “cash grab,” despite opposition from groups that see them as improving road safety levels.
The government expedited the passage of the law by restricting discussions and public consultations, as it was put up for vote in its third reading on Wednesday and voted on in the parliament on Thursday, where it was passed with a majority of 69 votes to 41, with full support from the Progressive Conservative members.
The government clarified that instead of cameras, it will focus on alternative traffic calming measures like speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and roundabouts, in addition to improving signage and road safety awareness campaigns.
Although the law has been passed in the Legislative Council, it awaits royal assent before it can be officially implemented, and the exact date of this procedure has yet to be clarified.
