Stop DC Capital Authoritarian Motorvehicle Enforcement and Restoration of Autonomy Act; Stop DC CAMERA Act
Summary
H.R. 5525, also known as the "Stop DC CAMERA Act," aims to repeal the District of Columbia's authority to use automated traffic enforcement systems and to prohibit right turns at red lights where signage is erected. The bill specifically targets repealing Section 9e of the District of Columbia Traffic Act, 1925, and Title IX of the Fiscal Year 1997 Budget Support Act of 1996. These sections currently grant the District the power to implement and manage automated traffic enforcement and restrictions on right turns at red lights.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 19, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The intention is to limit the District's autonomy over traffic regulations.
If enacted, the bill would significantly alter traffic management strategies in Washington, D.C.
Expected Effects
If passed, the "Stop DC CAMERA Act" would eliminate the use of automated traffic enforcement systems in Washington, D.C. It would also remove the District's ability to restrict right turns on red lights through signage.
This could lead to changes in driver behavior, potentially affecting traffic flow and safety. The practical effect would be a shift away from technology-based traffic enforcement and signage-based restrictions.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces revenue generated from traffic violations, which some may view as an overreach of local government.
- Could lead to fewer instances of drivers being penalized by automated systems, addressing concerns about fairness and accuracy.
- May simplify traffic regulations by removing restrictions on right turns at red lights.
- Reduces potential for errors and biases inherent in automated systems.
- Could increase individual autonomy and reduce perceived government control over driving behavior.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in traffic violations and accidents due to the removal of automated enforcement.
- Possible decrease in revenue for the District of Columbia, impacting its budget and ability to fund other programs.
- May lead to increased traffic congestion if right turns on red lights are no longer restricted.
- Could reduce the effectiveness of traffic management strategies aimed at improving safety.
- Potential for increased pedestrian accidents due to relaxed right-turn-on-red rules.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment hinges on the extent of Congressional authority over the District of Columbia. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever over the District of Columbia.
This clause provides the constitutional basis for Congress to legislate on matters concerning the District, including traffic regulations. The bill appears to be within the bounds of this constitutional grant of power.
However, arguments could be made regarding the balance between federal oversight and local autonomy, although the Constitution explicitly grants Congress broad authority over D.C.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).