Ontario government orders provincewide speed camera removal by November 14

Ontario's Progressive Conservative government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has passed Bill 56, the Building a More Competitive Economy Act, which mandates the removal of all automated speed cameras across the province by November 14, 2025. Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria stated that the government believes speed cameras are ineffective in reducing speeding and that other traffic-calming measures like speed bumps, roundabouts, and flashing signs will replace them, with temporary signage to be installed before camera removal. The legislation was fast-tracked, limiting debate and skipping public hearings, and has faced opposition from New Democrats, Liberals, and Green Party members who argue that removing cameras without immediate replacement safety measures could endanger communities, particularly near schools. Critics also highlight studies showing speed cameras' effectiveness in reducing speeding and aggressive driving, which the government disputes. The bill is part of a broader red tape reduction initiative aimed at streamlining regulatory processes and boosting Ontario's economic competitiveness. Premier Ford has labeled speed cameras as a "tax grab," underscoring the government's stance that the devices primarily generate revenue rather than enhance road safety.