Lawmakers: Red lights don't have to mean 'stop'

NASHVILLE -- Two Republican lawmakers from Knoxville are proposing a repeal of Tennessee's law requiring a "full and complete stop" at red lights as part of a renewed campaign to curb possibly unwarranted ticketing with traffic cameras.

Rep. Ryan Haynes and Sen. Stacey Campfield have introduced similar bills. Haynes' proposal would eliminate the requirement statewide, as long as they yield the right of way to any cross traffic or pedestrians and do not otherwise "endanger other traffic."

The Knoxville News Sentinel reports that Campfield's bill would apply only to Knox County.

Law enforcement officials say the current system is working well and enhancing public safety. Although some minor changes in the law may be in order, officials say, the new proposals could cause confusion and perhaps lead to more traffic accidents.

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