Hartford joins New Haven backing red light cameras

Hartford officials are joining New Haven in urging the Connecticut General Assembly to legalize cameras at traffic lights to catch red light runners.

The Hartford Courant reports (http://cour.at/AeXoha ) that Mayor Pedro Segarra and Democratic state Sen. John Fonfara of Hartford backed the effort Thursday. Segarra said the cameras will save lives by deterring motorists from trying to beat red lights.

Democratic office-holders and activists in New Haven have started a new round of lobbying to pass the law, which has failed in the past.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says he'll sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.

Critics say officials are pushing for cameras to boost revenue from fines that are imposed. Civil liberties groups say tickets are mailed to the car's owner who may not have driven the car.

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Information from: The Hartford Courant, http://www.courant.com