RICHMOND
--The House of Delegates will vote today on a bill that would eliminate Virginia's distinction as the only state that bans radar detectors.The bill simply repeals the ban on the devices, which motorists can use to detect police using radar guns to catch speeders.
"This is a bill whose time has come," said Del. Joe May, R-Leesburg, the bill's sponsor. "Virginia stands alone as being the sole state to ban them. It creates non-uniform traffic laws. This is something that has outlived its usefulness."
Del. Bill Carrico, R-Grayson, a former state trooper, opposed the bill, saying the sole purpose of radar detectors is to violate the law. He also said the bill could legalize other devices, like radar jammers, which would make it pointless for law enforcement agencies having spent money on radar guns.
Carrico also warned that the bill would encourage criminals.
"A lot of drug runners on I-95 are watching this bill," Carrico said.
He said possession of illegal radar detectors can provide police with grounds to search a stopped vehicle, which can help police find drugs.
Del. Jackson Miller, R-Manassas, also argued against the bill, saying that fewer people getting speeding tickets means less money going into government coffers for services like education.
Nevertheless, the House gave the bill preliminary approval. It will get a final vote today, then must go through the Senate.
Chelyen Davis: 540/368-5028
Email: cdavis@freelancestar.com