Gov. Andrew Cuomo has proposed an amendment to his executive budget that if authorized would pave the way for Nassau and Suffolk counties to install speeding cameras near schools.
The proposal would create one “speed zone” in each school district on Long Island, the governor’s office announced Friday in a press release. Cuomo didn’t say how much the program would cost.
The governor urged the New York State Legislature to pass the amendment this year, saying it would make schools and communities safer, as well as aid local law enforcement and encourage drivers to travel at lower speeds.
“Speeding through school zones puts children at risk, and this amendment is one way we can better protect our students and crack down on irresponsible drivers,” Cuomo said.
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone earlier this month also urged state lawmakers to allow the county to install speed cameras around schools.
The camera, under Cuomo’s proposal, would be capable of capturing speeding violations in real time without a police officer present. The program appears to be similar to existing red light cameras in both counties, which officials tout for its ability to improve safety and generate revenue.
Cuomo also has support from Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano. Both Mangano and Bellone said they “commend” the governor for trying to improve safety around schools.
Violations captured by speed cameras are currently being used in courts in Utah, California, and Arizona.
