Premier Doug Ford’s push to scrap automated speed cameras is a dangerous misstep dressed up as a populist crusade. Calling the cameras a “cash grab” may sound catchy, but it ignores hard data and the safety of the very communities he represents.
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is right to sound the alarm. In a letter to the premier, AMO points to a July study from SickKids and Toronto Metropolitan University showing a 45 per cent reduction in speeding where cameras are installed. That’s not a gimmick or a revenue scheme. That’s lives potentially saved.
Ford’s argument that “big huge signs” and “big flashing lights” are more effective is pure wishful thinking. Signs don’t ticket drivers who treat speed limits as suggestions. Cameras do. They free up police resources and ensure that speed limits are enforced consistently, not just when an officer happens to be nearby.
And let’s be clear: this isn’t a cash cow for municipalities. As AMO president Robin Jones reminded the premier, fines are reinvested in community safety measures. Last year, Toronto collected about $40 million from camera fines money that supports safer streets and other public safety initiatives.
Yes, it’s frustrating when people are fined. But the real frustration should be with drivers who endanger others. Removing automated speed cameras will only embolden reckless motorists and put pedestrians, cyclists, and children at greater risk.
If the premier truly cares about road safety, he should work with municipalities to strengthen enforcement tools, not dismantle them. Automated speed cameras aren’t about revenue they’re about responsibility. Ontario should be doubling down on proven safety measures, not cutting them down.
