Newark Mayor Ras Baraka says red light camera program should continue

NEWARK -- Northern New Jersey officials are calling for the continuation of cameras that snap photos and result in tickets for drivers who run red lights.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and state Sen. Richard Codey lent their support to the expiring red light camera program during a news conference in the city on Friday.

The officials want to keep the program because they say it cuts crashes.

The red light program is set to expire later this month after a five-year test period. The Legislature and Gov. Chris Christie would have to intervene with legislation to save the program.

Lawmakers have said it's unlikely the program will be renewed.

Detractors have called the program a scam aimed at raising money for government.