COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - The Senate Transportation Committee has approved a bill to let the state's largest cities install cameras at traffic lights to catch those running red lights.

The bill approved Wednesday would apply to cities with a population of 20,000 or more.

The committee voted down a similar bill last week after opponents said it might be a tempting revenue source for small towns.

Some members also said the accused wouldn't have enough protections.

Greenville Police Chief Willie Johnson says the cameras would make South Carolina roads safer.

Cameras are currently being used in 20 states and the District of Columbia.

Fines would be limited to 100 dollars and could not be placed on a driver's record or be used to raise insurance rates.