Texas governor signs law banning red-light traffic cameras

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, right, gives his State of the State address as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, left, listens in the House Chamber in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, right, gives his State of the State address as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, left, listens in the House Chamber in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) Photo: Eric Gay, STF / Associated Press Photo: Eric Gay, STF / Associated Press Image 1 of / 6 Caption Close Texas governor signs law banning red-light traffic cameras 1 / 6 Back to Gallery

Gov. Greg Abbott has signed a law that bans red-light traffic cameras in Texas.

Abbott on Saturday tweeted that he'd signed the law approved during the legislative session that ended on Memorial Day. The ban takes effect Sept. 1.

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Such cameras take images of vehicles entering intersections when red stoplights are illuminated. Drivers are usually fined $75.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Red light cameras, hated by many, outlawed by Texas senate

Critics say red-light cameras are unconstitutional and contribute to traffic accidents. Supporters say red-light cameras help make streets safer and generate funds for cities and other government entities.

An amendment lets cities keep operating the cameras until their contracts with vendors expire, although some communities have begun negotiations to terminate the deals earlier. The law also prevents counties and Texas officials from refusing to register a vehicle amid unpaid red-light camera tickets.