Lawmakers in one state are choosing to bring back controversial cameras so that $100 fines can be imposed on the way drivers for performing some common actions. It is lawmakers in Wisconsin who are considering a plan to change how traffic laws are enforced in Milwaukee. As part of the new bipartisan proposal called the Safe Roads Save Lives Act, traffic cameras will be installed to catch drivers committing two particular offenses. If approved, Milwaukee will become the very first city in Wisconsin to utilize such technology for the purpose outlined by the law.
Wisconsin is pushing for automated traffic enforcement
Two types of offenses are said to be caught on automated traffic cameras in Milwaukee, should the Safe Roads Save Lives Act come into effect. Speed cameras will automatically fine all drivers who run red lights and those who exceed the speed limit by 15 mph or more. Fines for such offenses will range between $20 and $100. The amount payable would depend on the severity of the offense.
This law, once approved in October 2025, will authorize cameras to operate for a five-year pilot period, and thereafter, the program’s effectiveness will be assessed by the state legislature. At present, there is a ban against the use of automated traffic enforcement in Wisconsin. While concerns pertaining to reckless driving may cause the ban to lift, all previous attempts to lift the ban until 2017 gained no legislative attention.
Supporters in favor of cameras as a way to save lives
In the year 2025, 48 people in Milwaukee died in fatal car crashes. This shocking statistic is what led to the idea that technology could considerably save lives. All the supporters of the bill argue that cameras can assist in preventing “a culture of reckless driving.”
According to the state’s Senator, Dora Drake (who is a co-author of the proposal), the automated system could be helpful in holding reckless drivers accountable for their actions while simultaneously reducing the workload of local law enforcement authorities.
As per the legislation, each of Milwaukee’s 15 aldermanic districts could install up to five traffic enforcement cameras. This would mean a total of about 75 cameras in the city. The locations where cameras will be installed will be determined based on accident data, which reveals the history of crashes.
Critics find the installation of automated cameras to be a controversial issue
For victims like Tina Ortiz, who lost her leg in a 2018 car crash with a reckless driver, the law is a form of justice. However, not all citizens are convinced that the technology can live up to its promises. Critics argue that a camera will not stop someone from speeding or running a red light.
Privacy and bias issues also seem to be of great concern for citizens who are unhappy about the installation of automated traffic enforcement cameras. In some U.S. cities, it was found that Latino and Black drivers were disproportionately fined.
However, supporters argue that data gained from the cameras would be used only for enforcement purposes and that the installation of these cameras would do more good than harm. With drivers at risk of getting $100 fines, one city is preparing for a painful change for thousands.
Where to now for citizens of Milwaukee?
The proposal still has to be reviewed by the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government before a full vote is made. Connecticut already has roads full of traffic enforcement cameras. Once and if approved, cameras will be operational from 2026 in Milwaukee. At present, debates about fairness and privacy seem to be continuing. However, many residents of Milwaukee feel that a $100 fine is a small price to pay to save lives. Milwaukee’s Safe Roads Save Lives Act is one set on saving more lives in this town in Wisconsin.
