State Rep. David McSweeney (R-Barrington Hills) wants a statewide ban on red light cameras.

The Republican legislator introduced a measure last week that would prohibit the devices in Chicago -- home to the largest red light camera program in the nation -- and elsewhere in the state.

"It's very clear that these cameras are a way for local governments to raise money," the lawmaker said, reported the Chicago Tribune. "And obviously Rahm Emanuel has taken it to its extreme."

It remains to be seen whether the proposal, which also takes aim at Chicago's speed cameras, will have any legs in the Democrat-controlled legislature, as powerful House Speaker Michael Madigan is a proponent of the devices.

McSweeney told the newspaper that Sen. Dan Duffy (R-Lake Barrington) is looking to spearhead a Senate version of the proposal. The state representative also said he has yet to have a conversation with House Democratic leaders about the proposed measure.

"At the end of the day, it's important that we have debate on this issue, that we get a vote on the floor and hopefully ban these cameras," the legislator said. "I am sure I will have a discussion with Speaker Madigan about it very soon."

The proposed legislation follows investigative reports by the Chicago Tribune that called into question the city's red light camera program and its purported safety benefits.