Oklahoma district attorneys and law enforcement agencies would be authorized to contract for the use of cameras and automated license plate readers to enforce the state's compulsory insurance law under a bill currently awaiting the governor's signature.

“Let's send a message. If you're going to drive in Oklahoma, you've got to have insurance,” state Rep. Earl Sears, R-Bartlesville, said Friday during debate on the House floor.

Sears said there are about 650,000 uninsured motorists driving in Oklahoma, and they create danger and financial risk for other motorists who do things right and carry insurance.

State Reps. Lewis Moore and Richard Morrissette argued against the measure, saying that motorists need to be insured, but contending the bill is poorly designed.