Ontario’s latest legislation, the Building a More Competitive Economy Act, is being sold as a bold move to “protect taxpayers” and boost economic growth. But hidden within its 11 initiatives is a decision that could put lives at risk: a province-wide ban on municipal speed cameras.
Premier Doug Ford insists this is about fairness. He’s framed speed cameras as a municipal “cash grab” and says the government will instead fund “practical, proactive” measures like speed bumps and roundabouts. On the surface, that sounds reasonable who wouldn’t prefer safer streets over surprise tickets in the mail? But in reality, this is a politically convenient move that ignores clear evidence showing speed cameras work.
A recent study by the Hospital for Sick Children and Toronto Metropolitan University found that speed cameras reduced speeding by 45 percent in school zones. That’s not a minor statistic it’s a lifesaving difference, especially for children walking to and from school. When cameras are installed, drivers slow down. It’s as simple as that.
The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police also opposes the ban, pointing out that cameras free up officers for other critical duties. In a time when police resources are stretched thin, removing a proven, automated safety tool makes little sense. It’s hard to see how this decision “protects taxpayers” when it could increase both the number of accidents and the costs associated with them.
Ford’s preference for roundabouts, raised crosswalks, and better signage isn’t wrong—they’re valuable tools in traffic calming. But it’s not an either/or choice. Speed cameras should be part of a comprehensive strategy, not the scapegoat for municipal frustration. If some cities are mismanaging fine revenue, the answer is more transparency, not a total ban.
The economic elements of the bill streamlining permits, cutting red tape, and recognizing out-of-province professional credentials are genuinely positive steps. Ontario’s economy can only benefit from removing unnecessary bureaucracy and attracting more skilled workers. But those wins shouldn’t come at the expense of public safety.
By bundling the speed camera ban into an economic reform bill, the government risks sending the message that safety is negotiable. Protecting taxpayers should mean protecting their well-being, too. Ontario doesn’t need fewer tools to keep roads safe it needs smarter policies that combine technology, infrastructure, and education.
In short, banning speed cameras might make for a good political talking point, but it’s bad public policy. If Ford truly wants to build a “more competitive” Ontario, he should start by ensuring its streets are safe for everyone who calls this province home.
