Traffic cameras likely to become more tempting

Sometimes do you feel like somebody's watching you?

The truth is, somebody probably is.

Whether it's a security camera at a discount store, or someone aiming a cell phone camera, or even a satellite zooming over a back yard, there are few times when a nosy neighbor, friend or authority doesn't have a chance to check out what you're up to.

If state Sen. Tony Fulton of Lincoln has his way, not only will those cameras be keeping track of you, they'll be able to help prosecute you for your traffic violations.

On Tuesday, Fulton introduced LB496 to allow police to issue tickets for driving misdeeds.

The bill never had a chance while Ernie Chambers was in office as a state senator -- he opposed earlier attempts to install such cameras.

But drivers in many other municipalities in the United States and around the world sometimes receive surprising mail. Those letters include a ticket and a photo of your car speeding or running a red light.

The City of Lincoln, which already has cameras at some intersections to count traffic or for other purposes, asked Fulton to introduce the bill.

We understand Chambers' unwillingness to short-circuit due process and compromise the right to privacy, and those are valid concerns.

But with tighter budgets, the temptation to enhance income by collecting more fines while keeping salaries down will be an increasing temptation for cities and states.